A microprocessor-based instrument to measure pulmonary functions in critically-ill newborn infants

Despite advances in the medical care of critically-ill newborn infants, chronic complications due to intense ventilatory support are common. Selection of ventilator settings is empirical, since measurement of pulmonary functions in newborn infants is not commonly performed. A microprocessor-based instrument was constructed to measure pulmonary function in critically-ill newborn infants with respiratory failure. Data collected fail to demonstrate any beneficial effect upon pulmonary mechanics with increasing amounts of continuous distending airway pressure, and in fact demonstrate an adverse effect upon the lung ventilation. These results demonstrate the need to measure pulmonary function to develop procedures to select optimum ventilator settings. A microprocessor-based system is suitable for such an application, and could be incorporated into future infant respiratory support equipment.