Effects of Bolus Surfactant Therapy on Peripheral Perfusion Index and Tissue Carbon Monoxide

Effects of Bolus Surfactant Therapy on Serial Peripheral Perfusion Index and Tissue Carbon Monoxide Measurements in Preterm Infants With Severe Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Exogenous bolus surfactant administration may affect hemodynamic parameters and peripheral perfusion. Surfactant therapy is commonly used for respiratory distress syndrome in premature infants, which is also associated with inflammation. There are different types and doses of surfactant preparations available. With the help of new generation monitors, changes in peripheral perfusion and transcutaneous CO, a marker of inflammation, may be demonstrated.

Preterm infants with severe Respiratory Distress Syndrome (study group) were compared to preterm infants without Respiratory Distress Syndrome(control group). Infants in the study group were randomized to receive either poractantalfa or beractant.

Perfusion index (PI) and transcutaneous CO (TCO) values were measured before (Tp) and 0 (T0), 5 (T5), 30 (T30), 60 (T60), 360 (T360) minutes after surfactant administration in the first six hours of life.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Gestational age between 26 and 36 weeks
• intubated for respiratory distress syndrome

Exclusion Criteria:

• cardiac defects,
• hemodynamically significant patent ductusarteriosus,
• congenital pneumonia,
• early sepsis
• unstable infants in need of inotropic support.