New Modes of Respiratory Support for the Premature Infant: Automated Control of Inspired Oxygen Concentration

Most extremely premature infants have respiratory instability that can manifest as frequent episodes of intermittent hypoxemia. Although caregivers target clinically recommended ranges of arterial oxygen saturation (oxygen saturation as measured by pulse oximetry [Spo2]), consistent maintenance of these ranges is not always achieved. Excessive administration of supplemental oxygen combined with limited staff resources increases exposure to extreme Spo2 levels. In this population, exposure to hyperoxemia and prolonged episodes of intermittent hypoxemia have been associated with damage to the eye and lung and impaired neurodevelopment. To improve Spo2 targeting, various systems for automated control of inspired oxygen have been developed recently.