Volume-Targeted versus Pressure-Limited Ventilation for Preterm Infants: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background: The causes of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) are multifactorial. Overdistension of the lung (volutrauma) is considered an important contribution. As an alternative to traditional pressure-limited ventilation (PLV), modern neonatal ventilators offer modes which can target a set tidal volume. Objectives: To determine whether volume-targeted neonatal ventilation, compared with PLV, reduces death or BPD. Methods: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis using the methodology of the Neonatal Review Group of the Cochrane Collaboration. A comprehensive literature search was undertaken, and data for prespecified outcomes were combined where appropriate using the fixed effects model. Results: Nine trials were eligible. Volume-targeted ventilation resulted in a reduction in: the combined outcome of death or BPD [typical relative risk, RR, 0.73 (95% confidence interval, 0.57–0.93), numbers needed to treat, NNT, 8 (95% CI 5–33)], the incidence of pneumothorax [typical RR 0.46 (95% CI 0.25–0.84), NNT 17 (95% CI 10–100)], days of ventilation [weighted mean difference 0.8 days (log-transformed data, p = 0.05)], hypocarbia (pCO₂ <35 mm Hg/4.7 kPa); [typical RR 0.56 (95% CI 0.33–0.96), NNT 4 (95% CI 2–25)], and the combined outcome of periventricular leukomalacia or grade 3–4 intraventricular hemorrhage [typical RR 0.48 (95% CI 0.28–0.84), NNT 11 (95% CI 7–50)]. Conclusions: Compared with PLV, infants ventilated using volume-targeted ventilation had reduced death/BPD, duration of ventilation, pneumothoraces, hypocarbia and periventricular leukomalacia/severe intraventricular hemorrhage. Further studies are needed to assess neurodevelopmental outcomes.