Iatrogenic nasal synechiae in a premature newborn

Nasal obstruction may cause short- and long-term problems such as respiratory distress, cyanosis, apnea, difficulty during feeding, and failure to thrive during the newborn period; since newborns are obligatory nasal breathers. Compression effect of the nasal cannulas and prongs used during respiratory support and nasal aspiration applications to clear the airways of secretions may result in nasal synechiae and acquired iatrogenic nasal obstruction.

In this case report, we present a premature newborn with nasal synechiae secondary to long-term nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nasal CPAP) applications and routine upper airway nursing care.

Severe nasal damage may occur in premature newborns receiving prolonged nasal CPAP support. To prevent this upper airway care should be conducted as gently as possible in premature newborns.