The value of lung ultrasound score in preterm neonatal respiratory distress syndrome

Abstract

Objective To investigate the value of lung ultrasound scores (LUS) combined with echocardiography for evaluation of the state of preterm neonatal respiratory distress syndrome(RDS). Methods Lung ultrasound and echocardiography were conducted on 43 preterm newborns with RDS. The echocardiographic parameter included the area and velocity of tricuspid regurgitation, patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and pulmonary artery systolic pressure(PASP). Correlational analyses of LUS and PASP, or X-ray grading were conducted. LUS difference was compared between the groups with PDA and without PDA. Results ①There was positive correlations between LUS and PASP (r=0.647, P<0.05), LUS and X-ray grade (r=0.770, P<0.05). ②LUS was significant different in different X-ray grade(F=31.460, P<0.05). ③Significant difference was found between the groups with PDA and without PDA(t=3.08, P<0.05). Conclusions LUS combined with echocardiography can be used as an effective method for early diagnosis, condition assessment and prognosis of RDS, and it is more direct, fast and without radiation. Key words: Ultrasonography; Lung ultrasound score; Respiratory distress syndrome, newborn; Premature birth; Patent ductus arteriosus