High frequency ventilator therapy for newborns.
High-frequency ventilation is a general term that refers to a family of ventilator techniques that utilize respirator rates greater than 60 breaths/minute and tidal volumes that are usually less than or equal to the anatomical dead space of the airways.  These techniques include high frequency positive-pressure ventilation, high frequency jet ventilation, high frequency flow interruption, high frequency oscillatory ventilation, and high frequency chest wall oscillation.  I review the proposed mechanisms of gas transport during high-frequency ventilation and the different ventilators capable of delivering this mode of ventilation.  In addition, clinical studies involving infants treated with this new technology are reviewed, along with long-term patient follow-up and reported complications.
Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.
J H
JH
Cronin
D000818:Animals; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006612:High-Frequency Ventilation / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn