[Unilateral interstitial emphysema in the newborn (apropos of 4 case reports)]

Four prematurely born neonates who where mechanically ventilated with CPAP for respiratory distress have developed severe unilateral pulmonary interstitial emphysema. Some particular circumstances can be pointed out in these cases. Spontaneous worsening is usual. Selective bronchial intubation protects the overinflated lung. It allowed total improvement of the lung function for the 3 cases who underwent this treatment. Although no major complications have been noticed, it is mandatory to suck out regularly bronchial secretions accumulated in the excluded lung.