Nasal high-frequency jet ventilation (NHFJV) as a novel means of respiratory support in extremely low birth weight infants.

Abstract

ObjectiveDescribe our experience of successfully using nasal high-frequency jet ventilation (NHFJV) in extremely low birth weight infants with respiratory failure.Study designA retrospective review was conducted on 16 infants with birth weights <1000 g who received NHFJV from 2015 to 2019. Successful use was defined as avoiding intubation for at least 72 hours and demonstrating tolerance after being placed on NHFJV.ResultsMedian gestational age was 24.5 weeks (IQR 24, 25), and weight at the start of NHFJV 1090 g (IQR 905, 1250). NHFJV was used successfully in 13/16 (81%) infants with a median duration of 7 days (IQR 3, 12). Days on invasive (30 vs. 186) and noninvasive (46 vs. 81) ventilation were shorter when compared to those who failed the use of NHFJV.ConclusionThis is the first reported case series for the successful use of NHFJV. Our study highlights the feasibility of a potential new mode of noninvasive respiratory support.