Efficacy of multi-powered continuous positive airway pressure device on neonates bearing respiratory distress syndrome: an observational analytical study

Abstract

Background: CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure), an effective intervention for respiratory distress in neonates. Following the development of simple, safe and relatively inexpensive CPAP devices. Saans (CPAP device) is one such portable, easy to use device which is operable in low resource settings, can be used as T-piece resuscitator in the delivery room and during transport. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a low cost, multi-powered and easy to use CPAP device Saans, developed by Coeo Labs Pvt. Ltd., Bangalore, on neonates with respiratory distress.Methods: An observational analytical study per the protocol, 35 neonates gestational age >30 weeks were enrolled. Primary outcome variable was the need for mechanical ventilation. Secondary outcome variables were the rate of survival, duration of oxygen in hours, duration of ventilation in hours, duration of hospital stay in days, change Downe score, SAS score, heart rate, respiratory rate and FiO2 from enrolment 6 hours of intervention.Results: 89% (31 neonates) enrolled with respiratory distress. 11% (4 neonates) failed to improve on CPAP therapy. A significant decline in the need for FiO2, mean Downe score, mean R and heart rate observed from the baseline 6 hours CPAP (p<0.001), t test analysis, factors significantly associated CPAP failure were high FiO2 at 1 hour and high positive end-expiratory pressure within 1 hour initiating CPAP (p<0.001).Conclusions: Saans (CPAP device), successful therapeutic option for neonates with respiratory distress and can be effective even in a resource-constrained clinical setting.