Meconium Aspiration Syndrome ✅ Flashcards
What % of deliveries does meconium stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) occur in?
13%
Does meconium aspiration syndrome occur in all babies with MSAF?
No, only in a small % of them
When does aspiration of meconium most commonly occur?
In utero
What feature of meconium makes aspiration more likely?
Thick consistency
What % of infants with MAS require mechanical ventilation?
30-60%
What % of infants with MAS develop pneumothoraces?
10-25%
What % of infants with MAS die?
2-5%
What % of infants with persistent pulmonary hypertension have MAS as an underlying disorder?
50-70%
What is involved in the pathophysiology of MAS?
- Proximal and distal airway obstruction and air trapping
- Pulmonary parenchymal injury
What causes pulmonary parenchymal injury in MAS?
Inflammatory cascade
What can pulmonary parenchymal injury led to?
Surfactant inactivation
What might develop in babies who have suffered chronic hypoxiaemia before delivery?
Remodelling of their pulmonary vasculature
What can remodelling of the pulmonary vasculature due to chronic hyperaemia before delivery lead to?
Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn
What is the mainstay of management of meconium aspiration syndrome?
- Provide adequate respiratory support to maintain oxygenation in the normal range
- Prevent air leaks
- Treatment of PPHN
How can air leaks be prevented in MAS?
Using newer styles of ventilation including high frequency ventilation
