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Updated: May 8, 2026

Preoxygenation Techniques for Tracheal Intubation in Critically Ill Adults Utilizing Oxygen Mask and Noninvasive Ventilation
Published on: December 5, 2025
[Therapy with high-flow nasal prongs in preterm infants]
F Ciuffini1, M Colnaghi, A Lavizzari
1NICU, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Università degli Studi di Milano.
High flow nasal cannula (HFNC) offers a promising, better-tolerated alternative to traditional non-invasive ventilation for premature infants with respiratory distress. Further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety for widespread clinical use.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal respiratory support
- Pulmonary complications in preterm infants
- Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) strategies
Context:
- Premature infants face high rates of long-term lung issues, often from mechanical ventilation.
- Nasal continuous positive airway pressure (NCPAP) is an NIV method with nasal trauma and intolerance drawbacks.
- High flow nasal cannula (HFNC) is an emerging NIV approach with improved patient tolerance and facial access.
Purpose:
- To review the current evidence on the effectiveness and safety of HFNC in preterm newborns with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS).
Summary:
- HFNC is an NIV mode that may reduce adverse effects compared to traditional ventilation.
- The distending pressure from HFNC is influenced by flow rate, infant size, and air leaks.
- While HFNC shows feasibility as an NIV alternative, its effects on lung mechanics, clinical efficacy, and safety require more investigation.
- Current evidence suggests HFNC is a viable option, but larger randomized trials are necessary to support its use for moderate RDS in preterm infants.
Impact:
- HFNC may improve nursing care, feeding, and bonding due to better facial access.
- This review highlights the potential of HFNC to optimize respiratory support for vulnerable preterm neonates.
- Further research will guide the clinical adoption of HFNC for managing neonatal respiratory distress.
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