Assessment of tidal volume and gas leak during mask ventilation of preterm infants in the delivery room

Abstract

Aim: The aim was to compare resuscitators' estimates of tidal volume (VT) and face mask leak with measured values during positive pressure ventilation (PPV) of newborn infants in the delivery room. Patients and methods: The authors measured inflating pressures and VT delivered using a respiratory function monitor, and calculated face mask leak. After 60 s of PPV, resuscitators were asked to estimate VT and face mask leak. These estimates were compared with measurements taken during the previous 30 s. Results: The authors studied 20 infants who received a mean (SD) of 21 (6) inflations during the 30 s. The median (IQR) expired tidal volume (V Te) delivered was 8.7 ml/kg (5.3-11.3). VTe varied..