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Laryngeal Mask Airway LMA Placement in a Neonatal Patient Simulator Using a Non-Inflatable Supraglottic Airway SGA
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Apnea of prematurity and sudden infant death syndrome

Richard J Martin1, Lisa J Mitchell1, Peter M MacFarlane1

  • 1Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States.

Handbook of Clinical Neurology
|August 28, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Apnea in preterm infants signals immature respiratory control, increasing Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) risk. Understanding respiratory control development is crucial for preventing these conditions.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatology
  • Neuroscience
  • Respiratory Physiology

Background:

  • Apnea is common in preterm infants, especially those born extremely prematurely.
  • This suggests an immature respiratory neural control system in these vulnerable infants.
  • Preterm infants face higher risks of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), linked to similar respiratory control issues.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the significance of respiratory control system development in prematurity.
  • To underscore the need for further research into the causes of apnea and SIDS.
  • To emphasize the gaps in understanding normal and abnormal respiratory control.

Main Methods:

  • This study is a review of current understanding and research gaps.
  • It synthesizes information on factors influencing respiratory control.
  • It identifies the need for novel research methodologies.

Main Results:

  • Immature respiratory neural control is a key factor in neonatal apnea.
  • Abnormalities in central and peripheral respiratory control mechanisms are implicated.
  • Environmental, genetic, and comorbid factors contribute to respiratory dysfunction.

Conclusions:

  • Significant knowledge gaps exist in understanding respiratory control development.
  • Further research using innovative methods is essential.
  • Addressing these gaps is critical for infant respiratory health and SIDS prevention.

Keywords:
ApneaBrainstemCarotid bodyIntermittent hypoxemiaPrematuritySIDS

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