Garg BD, et al. – The efficacy of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) was compared with heated humidified high–flow nasal cannula (HHHFNC) as noninvasive respiratory support in post–extubation period in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. Results revealed that in neonates ≤32 weeks of gestational age, HHHFNC displayed similar efficacy, and better safety profile than nasal–CPAP when used during post–extubation period for respiratory support.

Methods

• This study consisted of 136 neonates, ≤32 weeks gestation and ≤1500 grams birth weight, requiring noninvasive respiratory support during post–extubation period.

Results

• No significant difference was observed in post–extubation failure in HHHFNC group when compared with CPAP group (p > 0.05).
• However, post–extubation complication was significantly higher in CPAP group (p < 0.05) including nasal septal trauma and pneumothorax.