The influence of orotracheal intubation on the oral tissue development in preterm infants

Area of Science:

• Neonatal care
• Pediatric dentistry
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery

Background:

• Preterm infants often require neonatal intensive care, including orotracheal intubation for respiratory support.
• The mechanical effects of orotracheal tubes on oral tissue development in preterm neonates are not well-understood.
• Oral alterations can arise from the prolonged use of orotracheal tubes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between orotracheal intubation and the occurrence of oral alterations in preterm infants.
• To identify specific oral conditions potentially linked to mechanical intubation in neonates.
• To contribute to understanding the long-term effects of neonatal intensive care on oral development.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study of 117 preterm infants born between 2002-2003 in Brazil.
• Statistical analysis using Fisher's exact test and Mann-Whitney U test.
• Calculation of 95% confidence intervals for observed oral conditions.

Main Results:

• The most common oral conditions observed were anterior crossbite, superior alveolar contour changes, and palatal deformation.
• A statistically significant association was found between orotracheal intubation and the incidence of these oral alterations.
• The findings highlight potential developmental impacts on the oral structures.

Conclusions:

• Mechanical trauma from orotracheal intubation influences oral structure development in preterm infants.
• Neonatal intensive care interventions, such as intubation, warrant careful consideration for potential oral health consequences.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms and long-term implications of these oral changes.