Neonatology
-
Neonatal asphyxia may lead to the development of ischemia-reperfusion induced intestinal injury, which is related to oxygen-derived free radical production. N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) is a thiol-containing antioxidant which increases intracellular stores of glutathione. ⋯ In newborn piglets with hypoxia-reoxygenation, NAC may improve mesenteric blood flow and oxygen delivery without significant effect on tissue glutathione content. The protective role of NAC in the reoxygenated intestine after severe hypoxia warrants further investigation.
-
Acute episodes of hypoxemia in ventilated preterm infants are triggered by changes in ventilation, lung volume (LV) and respiratory system compliance (C(RS)) that are not prevented by conventional synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation (SIMV). ⋯ In this animal model, targeted V'(E) was effective in reducing hypoxemia caused by apnea. When apnea was accompanied by a reduction in LV and C(RS), the combined adjustment of PIP and ventilator rate was more effective than each individually. This combined strategy may be effective in ameliorating acute episodes of hypoxemia in preterm infants but this remains to be proven.
-
Premature infants with lung injury often experience intermittent episodes of hypoxemia. ⋯ Thus, intermittent hypoxic stress during hyperoxic induction of BPD in mice potentiates oxidative stress in lung tissue and exacerbates alveolar developmental arrest.