Non-invasive respiratory support of preterm neonates with respiratory distress: Continuous positive airway pressure and nasal intermittent positive pressure ventilation

Abstract

Non-invasive techniques of respiratory support were developed in order to reduce the adverse effects associated with ventilation via an endotracheal tube. Short bi-nasal prongs provide the most effective nasal interface for delivery of nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP). Devices used to generate CPAP include conventional ventilators, the 'bubbly bottle' system and the infant flow driver. NCPAP improves the rate of successful extubation. It is useful for preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome, reducing time spent on an endotracheal tube and oxygen requirement at 28 d. However, nCPAP is associated with an increased rate of pneumothorax. Nasal intermittent positive pr..