title: Measurements of pulmonary mechanics prior to the elective extubation of neonates.
abstract: We measured total respiratory system compliance (CRS) and resistance (RRS) 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 CRS when compared to trials that led to reintubation (1.52 vs. 1.10 mL/cm H2O, P = 0.004). Low values of CRS (0.9 mL/cm H2O or less) were invariably associated with extubation failure, whereas high values of CRS (1.3 mL/cm H2O or greater) were associated with extubation success in 94% of patients. A higher mean value of RRS was recorded in the group of infants who failed extubation when compared to those who were successful (0.22 vs. 0.17 cm H2O/mL/s, P = 0.042). We propose that measurements of pulmonary mechanics, particularly CRS, may be useful in identifying infants who will be at risk for extubation failure.
authors: Department of Pediatrics, Magee Womens Hospital, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pennsylvania 15312.
authors: M J
authors: MJ
authors: Balsan
authors: J G
authors: JG
authors: Jones
authors: J F
authors: JF
authors: Watchko
authors: R D
authors: RD
authors: Guthrie
mesh_terms: D000403:Airway Resistance; D001835:Body Weight; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008170:Lung Compliance; D012127:Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Newborn / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D015656:Respiratory Mechanics; D015300:Ventilator Weaning