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Measurements of pulmonary mechanics prior to the elective extubation of neonates
Author(s) -
Balsan Michael J.,
Jones Judith G.,
Watchko Jon F.,
Guthrie Robert D.
Publication year - 1990
Publication title -
pediatric pulmonology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.866
H-Index - 106
eISSN - 1099-0496
pISSN - 8755-6863
DOI - 10.1002/ppul.1950090409
Subject(s) - medicine , respiratory distress , respiratory physiology , anesthesia , pulmonary compliance , respiratory system , pediatrics , surgery
We measured total respiratory system compliance (C RS ) and resistance (R RS ) by the passive expiratory flow technique prior to the elective extubation of 61 neonates with a history of respiratory distress syndrome. Successful trials of extubation were characterized by a higher mean value of C RS when compared to trials that led to reintubation (1.52 vs. 1.10 mL/cm H 2 O, P = 0.004). Low values of C RS (0.9 mL/cm H 2 O or less) were invariably associated with extubation failure, whereas high values of C RS (1.3 mL/cm H 2 O or greater) were associated with extubation success in 94% of patients. A higher mean value of R RS was recorded in the group of infants who failed extubation when compared to those who were successful (0.22 vs. 0.17 cm H 2 O/mL/s, P = 0.042). We propose that measurements of pulmonary mechanics, particularly C RS , may by useful in identifying infants who will be at risk for extubation failure. Pediatr Pulmonal 1990; 9:238–243 .