After an account of historical data on the use of natural carbon dioxide in balneotherapy for subcutaneous insufflation the authors discuss technical prerequisites for the administration of mineral spring gas by the subcutaneous route. They evaluate possible factors which cause changes at the site of administration and the effects of carbon dioxide in the subcutaneous layer and its remote effects in the organism. The authors evaluate the results of comprehensive spa treatment extended by subcutaneous insufflation of spring gas in diabetic patients with ischaemia of the lower extremities, compare the effect of subcutaneous insufflation of spring gas and the effect of pulsed magnetic field with basic comprehensive spa treatment of diabetic patients with ischaemia of the lower extremities , compare insufflation of mineral spring gas in diabetic patients and non-diabetic subjects with ischaemia of the lower extremities in the claudication stage. In the last presented trial they submit results of monotherapeutic administration of subcutaneous insufflation of mineral spring gas and partial gas baths. In the conclusion they discuss indications, contraindications, complications and examples of administration and dosage.

        Key words: natural carbon dioxide , subcutaneous insufflation, technical prerequisites, physiological data, effect in ischaemia of the lower extremities, general indications, contra- indications, complications examples of administration and dosage