Surgical resection for pulmonary interstitial emphysema in the newborn infant

Three patients with pulmonary interstitial emphysema are presented in whom the course was similar and progressive. Eventually all three infants developed respiratory insufficiency and chronic dependence on mechanical ventilation, cardiovascular complications of patent ductus arteriosus with congestive heart failure, and seizures probably secondary to intermittent periods of asphyxia and hypoxemia. All infants underwent lobectomy and recovered rapidly. Follow-up examinations have shown some residual pulmonary abnormalities. All three infants are progressing within the normal range for motor development.