Comparative effectiveness of various modes of non-invasive respiratory support in preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome

Respiratory distress syndrome, caused by surfactant deficiency, poses a significant threat to the health and life of preterm infants. Modern respiratory support strategies aim to minimize invasiveness; however, the selection of the optimal method remains the subject of ongoing research. The objective of this study was to conduct a comparative analysis of two approaches to non-invasive respiratory support—high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (NHFOV) and nasal continuous positive airway pressure (NCPAP)— in the treatment of respiratory distress syndrome in preterm infants.

Materials and Methods. The study included 62 preterm infants (gestational age 30–36 weeks) diagnosed with respiratory distress syndrome. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups: the first group received NHFOV therapy, and the second group received NCPAP. Parameters such as the duration of respiratory support, degree of respiratory failure according to the Silverman score, need for endotracheal intubation, and the frequency of complications were assessed.

Results. The NHFOV group showed a significant reduction in the duration of respiratory support (p<0.001) and a more pronounced decrease in the Silverman score by the end of the therapy (p<0.05) compared to the NCPAP group. Both methods showed similar complication rates, including nasal mucosal injuries.

Conclusion. The results confirm the high effectiveness of NHFOV as an alternative method of non-invasive lung ventilation for respiratory distress syndrome in preterm infants. The use of NHFOV allows for a reduction in the duration of respiratory therapy and improvement in clinical outcomes without increasing the risk of complications.

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