Laryngeal Mask Ventilation during Neonatal Resuscitation: A Case Series

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Medicine
• Pediatric Resuscitation
• Airway Management

Background:

• Positive pressure ventilation via facemask is crucial for neonatal resuscitation but challenging to master.
• Laryngeal masks offer an alternative advanced airway to endotracheal intubation for newborns.
• Limited data exists on laryngeal mask utilization in US neonatal resuscitation settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the first case series in the United States of laryngeal mask use in neonatal resuscitation.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of laryngeal mask airway in newborns requiring advanced airway support.
• To assess the impact of a quality improvement collaborative and training on laryngeal mask implementation.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series analysis.
• Implementation of an interdisciplinary quality improvement collaborative.
• Focused training program on laryngeal mask insertion and use.
• Inclusion of newborns >= 34 weeks' gestation requiring resuscitation.

Main Results:

• Successful utilization of laryngeal mask during neonatal resuscitation in all reported cases.
• Demonstrated feasibility and effectiveness of the laryngeal mask in this cohort.
• Positive outcomes associated with the quality improvement and training interventions.

Conclusions:

• Laryngeal mask airway is a successful alternative for advanced airway management in neonatal resuscitation for eligible newborns.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration and targeted training enhance the adoption and effectiveness of new resuscitation techniques.
• This approach may improve outcomes for newborns requiring advanced airway support during resuscitation.