Premature infants often rely on ventilators for breathing support, as their lungs are not fully developed. However, prolonged use of ventilators can lead to bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD).
Results from two studies published on July 27 by American scientists indicate that supplementing with nitric oxide while on a ventilator can help reduce the duration of ventilator use and prevent BPD.
This is crucial for the future physical health of these infants, as those affected by BPD are at a higher risk for lung diseases, particularly pulmonary hypertension, as well as other neurological issues such as cerebral palsy, which can impact learning. Unfortunately, both studies conducted on 1,400 premature infants weighing between 1,000 grams and 1,250 grams confirmed that the nitric oxide supplementation method is only effective for certain infants.
Scientists have not yet determined the reasons why this is the case and continue to research in order to develop effective treatment protocols for each individual case.
K.Y.M
