Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
3918499 | Early Human Development | 2009 | 4 Pages |
Selecting the optimal mode of respiratory support remains a daily challenge for the practicing neonatologist. We are faced with a bewildering array of modalities and a paucity of definitive studies to guide our decisions. In this context the choice of therapies must be guided by evidence-based guidelines, supplemented by a solid understanding of the pathophysiology of lung injury, an appreciation of the individual patient's specific disease process/physiologic derangement. The sequential application of the least invasive treatment to achieve the relevant therapeutic goal with frequent re-evaluation of the patient's need and possible escalation of support as needed, coupled with the application of lung-protective strategies of respiratory support appears to offer the best chance of minimizing adverse pulmonary and neurodevelopmental outcomes.