What is the most common complication of helium inhalation presenting to Emergency Departments in the United States?
According to a 20 year review of data obtained from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System, approxiamtely 2000 helium related injuries present to Emergency Departments Annually in the United States. The most common complication is syncope and dizziness followed by head injury. The most common source is helium baloons.
Forrester MB. Helium inhalation injuries managed at emergency departments. Clin Toxicol (Phila). 2021 Feb;59(2):138-141. doi: 10.1080/15563650.2020.1776871. Epub 2020 Jun 12. PMID: 32527163.
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