Mask versus nasal tube for stabilization of preterm infants at birth: Respiratory function measurements

Abstract

Objective To compare the nasal tube with face mask as interfaces for stabilization of very preterm infants at birth by using physiological measurements of leak, obstruction, and expired tidal volumes during positive pressure ventilation (PPV). Study design In the delivery room, 43 infants <30 weeks gestation were allocated to receive respiratory support by nasal tube or face mask. Respiratory function, heart rate, and oxygen saturation were measured. Occurrence of obstruction, amount of leak, and tidal volumes were compared using a Mann-Whitney U test or a Fisher exact test. Results The first 5 minutes after initiation of PPV were analyzed (1566 inflations in the nasal tube group and 1896 in..