TY  - JOUR
PY  - 1992//
TI  - Asphyxial deaths from the recreational use of nitrous oxide
JO  - Journal of forensic sciences
A1  - Wagner, S. A.
A1  - Clark, Melissa A.
A1  - Wesche, D. L.
A1  - Doedens, D. J.
A1  - Lloyd, A. W.
SP  - 1008
EP  - 1015
VL  - 37
IS  - 4
N2  - The recreational use of nitrous oxide is widespread. Nitrous oxide for recreational use is usually obtained from anesthesia tanks or whipped-cream machine chargers or cans. Twenty previously described deaths associated with recreational nitrous-oxide use describe anesthesia tanks and whipped-cream machine dispensors as a source. Five deaths associated with nitrous oxide use are presented; two involving whipped-cream cannisters as the source, two involving anesthesia tanks, and one involving a racing fuel tank as a source of nitrous oxide. Autopsy findings in our cases were subtle or negative, but usually suggestive of asphyxia. Through a laboratory simulation, we have confirmed that nitrous oxide displaces oxygen in a closed space, which probably leads to asphyxia. A review of the literature, neuropharmacology, and pathophysiology of nitrous oxide use is also presented.<p />  <p>Language: en</p>
LA  - en
SN  - 0022-1198
UR  - http://dx.doi.org/
ID  - ref1
ER  -