Ventilating the lungs of newborn infants for prolonged periods

Quality of survival after artificial ventilation of the newborn

Fifty children now aged 4 to 8 years who required artificial ventilation for respiratory failure in the neonatal period were followed up; 44 (88%) had no serious mental or physical handicap. 35 of the ventilated infants were matched with paired controls who had also had respiratory distress but had not required artificial ventilation. Detailed studies of growth, respiratory and neurological function, and psychological testing revealed only minor differences between the two groups. It is concluded that the quality of survival after artificial ventilation of the newborn justifies the procedure.

The management of respiratory failure in infancy

The management of respiratory failure in infancy has altered considerably over the past two decades, due both to an increasing understanding of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms involved and the development of new techniques of treatment. This paper outlines the rationale, indications, and details of the therapy which may be required in neonates and infants suffering from illnesses affecting respiratory function.