[Comparison of the early response to natural and synthetic surfactant in premature babies with respiratory distress syndrome].
OBJECTIVE
To compare the early response to natural and synthetic surfactant in premature babies with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS).


METHODS
This is a prospective study of 21 newborns with respiratory distress syndrome treated with natural or synthetic surfactant. The response rapidity after administration of natural or synthetic surfactant was compared by parameters of mechanical ventilation (FiO2, Pmax, IO) in the first 6 hours and during the following 7 days of life. The frequency of respiratory complications, presence of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and its treatment and causes of death were evaluated.


RESULTS
Definitely quicker decrease in ventilation parameters was observed after the administration of natural surfactant as compared to the synthetic one. Statistically significant differences were observed during 72 hours and then they decreased.


CONCLUSIONS
The response after the administration of natural surfactants in premature babies with RDS within the first six hours of treatment was significantly quicker than after synthetic surfactant. This improves the parameters of mechanical ventilation much quicker and prevents complications. Longitudinal studies of the development of children treated with both kinds of surfactant are necessary in order to evaluate the effects of the treatment in the neonatal period.
Rutkowska
M
M
Klinika Patologii i Intensywnej Terapii Noworodka, Instytut Matki i Dziecka w Warszawie, ul. Kasprzaka 17a, 01-211 Warszawa, Polska. kpn@imid.med.pl
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature; D008297:Male; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011663:Pulmonary Surfactants / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D012127:Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Newborn / Q000188:drug therapy*; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D011663:Pulmonary Surfactants