Respiratory Disorders Of The Preterm

Question 1

Most common respiratory disorder of the preterm

Answer 1

Respiratory Distress syndrome (hyaline membrane disease)

Question 2

Prevention of RDS

Answer 2

• IUGR babies born >28 weeks.
• Maternal corticosteroid ( 2 doses, 12 hr
apart,Betamethasone and
dexamethasone): reduces RDS and neonatal death, and
GMH-IVH and NEC. Maximal benefit 2-4 days before delivery
(24hrs-7days).

Question 3

Composition of surfactant

Answer 3

• Lipid (mostly phospholipids – 90%)

* Protein (surfactant proteins A,B and C – 10%)

Question 4

Management of RDS

Answer 4

O2
Surfactant
Ventilation

Question 5

Management of pneumothorax

Answer 5

Chest tube

Question 6

What is an important risk factor for developing bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD)

Answer 6

Prolonged PPV Ventilation

Question 7

CXR Of bronchopulmonary Dysplasia

Answer 7

hyperinflation, low diaphragm,

atelectasis, areas of opacification with cystic changes.

Question 8

When does bronchopulmonary Dysplasia occur commonly

Answer 8

In the first 4 weeks after birth (after prolonged ventilation)

Question 9

Management of bronchopulmonary Dysplasia

Answer 9

Steroids

Question 10

Management of apnea of prematurity

Answer 10

Monitoring: a bedside respiratory and heart rate monitor
Treatment of acute apneic episodes
1. Physical stimulation
2. If no response → bag and mask ventilation, suctioning
and neck positioning.

Caffeine citrate
: Respiratory stimulant

CPAP & mechanical ventilation: Frequent apneas
• Correction of the cause