Randomized controlled trial of lung lavage with dilute surfactant for meconium aspiration syndrome

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate whether lung lavage with surfactant changes the duration of mechanical respiratory support or other outcomes in meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS). Study design: We conducted a randomized controlled trial that enrolled ventilated infants with MAS. Infants randomized to lavage received two 15-mL/kg aliquots of dilute bovine surfactant instilled into, and recovered from, the lung. Control subjects received standard care, which in both groups included high frequency ventilation, nitric oxide, and, where available, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Results: Sixty-six infants were randomized, with one ineligible infant excluded from analysis. Median duration of re..