The epidemiology of respiratory failure in neonates born at an estimated gestational age of 34 weeks or more.
OBJECTIVE
To prospectively evaluate the primary causes for the use of mechanical ventilation in near-term neonates and to determine the rates of death, chronic lung disease, and neurological complications in these infants.


METHODS
We collected data on 1011 neonates who were > or =34 weeks' estimated gestational age; intubated within 72 hours of birth; and expected to require ventilation for more than 6 hours.


RESULTS
The study population had a mean estimated gestational age of 37+/-2 weeks; had a mean birth weight of 2.9+/-0.6 kg; and were predominantly male (62%), white (69%), and delivered by cesarean section (55%). Respiratory distress syndrome (n=437) was the most common pulmonary illness. Chronic lung disease was diagnosed in 109 (11%); neurological complications were reported in 86 (9%); and 51 (5%) patients died.


CONCLUSIONS
Neonates > or =34 weeks who require mechanical ventilation represent a high-risk population who have significant morbidity and mortality.
Clark
Reese H
RH
Pediatrix Medical Group, Inc., Sunrise, FL 33323, USA.
D002908:Chronic Disease; D005260:Female; D005865:Gestational Age; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008171:Lung Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology; D008297:Male; D009017:Morbidity; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012121:Respiration, Artificial; D012127:Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Newborn / Q000453:epidemiology*; D012307:Risk Factors