Precautions about Ethyl Chloride

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Abstract
I am responding to the excellent article written by Joan G. LaFreniere entitled “Tennis Elbow,” in our June 1979 Journal. My concern is that one of the techniques presented was the use of ethyl chloride spray for treating musculotendinous pathology as espoused by Dr. Hans Kraus.1 It was presented without describing the precautions in the use of ethyl chloride and mentioning that a safe alternative is available. Ethyl chloride is highly flammable and a potential anesthetic so it requires caution when used. Bonica states, “Ethyl chloride vapor is heavier than air, therefore the patient should be so positioned that the vapors gravitate away from his face. Also the room should have adequate ventilation to disperse the vapors, and sources of fires, such as cigarettes, open flame, or electrical motors should be absolutely avoided.”2… Related PubMed Citation:312505 Joan G Lafraniere Staff Physical Therapist Willibald Nagler MD Chief of Rehabilitation Services Cornell Medical Center The New York Hospital Department of Rehabilitation Medicine 525 E 68th St New York, NY 10021

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