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Respiratory physiology during NAVA ventilation in neonates born with a congenital diaphragmatic hernia: The
Lélia Dreyfus1, Marine Butin1,2, Frank Plaisant1
1Service de Néonatologie et Réanimation Néonatale, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Bron, France.
Background:
Neurally adjusted ventilatory assist (NAVA) is a ventilatory mode that delivers synchronized ventilation, proportional to the electrical activity of the diaphragm (EAdi). Although it has been proposed in infants with a congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), the diaphragmatic defect and the surgical repair could alter the physiology of the diaphragm.
Aim:
To evaluate, in a pilot study, the relationship between the respiratory drive (EAdi) and the respiratory effort in neonates with CDH during the postsurgical period under either NAVA ventilation or conventional ventilation (CV).
Methods:
This prospective physiological study included eight neonates admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit with a diagnosis of CDH. EAdi, esophageal, gastric, and transdiaphragmatic pressure, as well as clinical parameters, were recorded during NAVA and CV (synchronized intermittent mandatory pressure ventilation) in the postsurgical period.
Results:
EAdi was detectable and there was a correlation between the ΔEAdi (maximal - minimal values) and the transdiaphragmatic pressure (r = 0.26, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.222; 0.299]). There was no significant difference in terms of clinical or physiological parameters during NAVA compared to CV, including work of breathing.
Conclusion:
Respiratory drive and effort were correlated in infants with CDH and therefore NAVA is a suitable proportional mode in this population. EAdi can also be used to monitor the diaphragm for individualized support.
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