Bronchoscopic surfactant administration in premature neonate with persistent lobar atelectasis: the new concept

Neonatal pulmonary atelectasis (NPA) is the collapse or closure of a lung resulting in reduced or absent gas exchange. NPA is a common clinical complication among premature neonates and can contribute to a need for prolong mechanical ventilation and poor prognosis. It is usually unilateral. Chests X-ray, CT scan, and recently ultrasonography are diagnostic aids. Unfortunately, there are little experiences in the treatment of this condition. Administration of surfactant by ultrathin bronchoscope illustrates here as new concept in the treatment of persistent NPA in small size neonates.