Effect of High Frequency Oscillatory Highflow Nasal Cannula on Desaturations and Bradycardia in Preterm Infants

Effect of High Frequency Oscillatory Highflow Nasal Cannula on Desaturations and Bradycardia in Preterm Infants: A Randomized Crossover Trial

This study evaluates the effect of non-invasive high frequency oscillations applied via a highflow nasal cannula ('Osciflow') compared to highflow nasal cannula without oscillations (HF) on desaturations and bradycardia in premature infants. It uses a crossover design. Infants are randomized to begin the study with either Osciflow or HF. Both modes are applied for 4 hours. Infants are monitored with an oximetry sensor to measure peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) and pulse rate, and with a transcutaneous CO2-transducer. Further measurements include respiratory rate and 'Bernese pain scale' evaluated by nursing staff and Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT) in a subset of patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Preterm infants born with a gestational age of <35 weeks
• >72 hours old
• On nCPAP with PEEP 5 mbar and FiO2 <0.3

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe congenital malformations adversely affecting life expectancy