Bi-level CPAP does not change central blood flow in preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome

Current literature provides limited data on the hemodynamic changes that may occur during bi-level continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) support in preterm infants. However, the application of a positive end-expiratory pressure may be transmitted to the heart and the great vessels resulting in changes of central blood flow.

To assess changes in central blood flow in infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) during bi-level CPAP support.

A prospective study was performed in a cohort of 18 Very-Low-Birth-Weight Infants who were put on nasal CPAP support (4-5 cmH2O) because they developed RDS within the first 24-72 hours of life. Each subject was switched to bi-level CPAP support (Phigh 8 cmH2O, Plow 4-5 cmH2O, Thigh 0.5-0.6 seconds, 20 breaths/min) for an hour. An echocardiographic study and a capillary gas analysis were performed before and after the change of respiratory support.

No differences between n-CPAP and bi-level CPAP in left ventricular output (LVO, 222.17 ± 81.4 vs 211.4 ± 75.3 ml/kg/min), right ventricular output (RVO, 287.8 ± 96 vs 283.4 ± 87.4 ml/kg/min) and superior vena cava flow (SVC, 135.38 ± 47.8 vs 137.48 ± 46.6 ml/kg/min) were observed. The hemodynamic characteristics of the ductus arteriosus were similar. A significant decrease in pCO2 levels after bi-level CPAP ventilation was observed; pCO2 variations did not correlate with modifications of central blood flow (LVO: ρ=0.11, p=0,657; RVO: ρ=-0.307, p=0.216; SVC: ρ=-0.13, p=0.197).

Central blood flow doesn't change during bi-level CPAP support, which could become a hemodinamically safe tool for the treatment of RDS in preterm infants.