Bubble CPAP (Continuous Positive airway pressure) therapy as a primary mode of respiratory support in preterm newborns with mild to moderate respiratory distress syndrome

Abstract

Background: Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in preterm infants. Bubble CPAP when used appropriately, is more cost-effective, non-invasive, requires less training and has a lower risk of complications. However, not all preterm infants with RDS respond to CPAP. \nAims: To study the immediate outcome of preterm infants with mild to moderate respiratory distress syndrome on Bubble CPAP. To study the safety and effectiveness of B-CPAP and to identify the risk factors associated with its failure. \nSetting: NICU, Department of pediatrics, Mamata general hospital and medical college, Khammam. \nDesign- Prospective observational study \nMaterial and Methods: This duration bound study was conducted from February 2018 to February 2020. Based on the inclusion criteria 73 Preterm babies with mild to moderate respiratory distress syndrome requiring respiratory support were included in this study. Details of birth history, use of antenatal steroids, gestational age, type of delivery, birth weight, Downes score and chest X-ray were recorded. And the effectiveness and outcome of bubble CPAP were studied. \nResults: Out of the total of 73 cases, 53(72.60%) were treated successfully, while 20(27.40%) failed bubble CPAP. \nConclusion: Bubble CPAP is the safe primary mode of respiratory support in Preterm newborns with mild to moderate RDS, more effective with early Initiation and in Preterm babies born to mothers with the use of antenatal steroids.