Application of Selective Bronchial Intubation versus Neurally Adjusted Ventilatory Assist in the Management of Unilateral Pulmonary Interstitial Emphysema: An Illustrative Case and the Literature Review

Case Report: Neurally adjusted ventilatory assist as an effective rescue treatment for pulmonary interstitial emphysema in extremely low birth weight infants

Pulmonary interstitial emphysema (PIE) is a complication observed in extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants on mechanical ventilation. Despite various proposed therapeutic interventions, the success rates have shown inconsistency. Neurally adjusted ventilatory assist (NAVA) stands out as a novel respiratory support mode, offering lower pressure and tidal volume in comparison to conventional ventilation methods. In this case report, we present five ELBW infants with refractory PIE who were transitioned to NAVA ventilation. Following the switch to NAVA, all cases of PIE gradually resolved. In contrast to traditional modes, NAVA provided respiratory support with significantly lower fraction of inspired oxygen, reduced peak inspiratory pressure, diminished mean airway pressure, and decreased tidal volume within 7 days of NAVA utilization (p = 0.042, 0.043, 0.043, and 0.042, respectively). Consequently, we propose that NAVA could serve as a valuable rescue treatment for ELBW infants with PIE.

Management of Air Leaks in the Newborn

BACKGROUND

Air leaks, especially pulmonary interstitial emphysema (PIE), are increasingly uncommon respiratory complications of the newborn. Despite PIE having a decreasing incidence, it continues to have a high morbidity and mortality rate. This makes PIE one of the most severe respiratory complications to affect a newborn. Air leaks occur when there is overdistension of the terminal airways or alveoli, which results in air dissecting into extra-alveolar spaces. Recognizing the signs of air leaks is paramount to allow for appropriate diagnosis and treatment of the newborn to improve morbidity and mortality. Treatment modalities range from positioning the newborn in the decubitus position to surgical intervention.

PURPOSE

To summarize current evidence on the pathophysiology, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, and management of PIE and pneumothorax.

DATA SOURCES

Two databases were systematically reviewed with key words later. Articles in English with date restrictions from 2016 to current were included.

STUDY SELECTION

Inclusion criteria of randomized controlled trials, case studies/reports, and review articles were utilized. Twenty articles, primarily case reports and studies, were reviewed.

DATA EXTRACTION

Guidelines for data abstraction were followed via independent extraction by a single observer.

RESULTS

Qualitative results were utilized to formulate current treatment of air leaks.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

This article provides guidance for frontline neonatal providers on current treatment and management of air leaks in the newborn population.

Positional treatment without mechanical ventilation in a very preterm infant with unilateral pulmonary interstitial emphysema: case report and review of the literature

Background

Pulmonary interstitial emphysema (PIE) in very low birth weight infants is a rare but severe complication. Although most of these air leaks develop in mechanically ventilated infants, they have also been reported in infants exposed only to nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). The optimal treatment for PIE is still under discussion and includes different approaches such as unilateral intubation, high frequency oscillation ventilation and even surgical lobectomy. However, as yet, there has been no report on complete resolution of unilateral PIE by positioning therapy without mechanical ventilation.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 28⁺¹gestational week twin, 990 g birth weight, Apgar 9–10-10. After stabilization with nasal CPAP the baby received surfactant by less invasive surfactant application (LISA) technique in the delivery room after 35 min of life, and continued respiratory support with nasal CPAP. At day 5 X-ray presented unilateral PIE, while pCO₂ increased from 40 mmHg to 55 mmHg and FiO₂ from 0.21 to 0.28 to achieve SpO₂ in the target range of 89–94%. The baby was treated by strict positioning on the affected hemithorax in a special splint while spontaneously breathing on High Flow Nasal Cannula (HFNC). Complete resolution of the unilateral PIE was observed after 96 h. No chronic lung disease developed.

Conclusion

For unilateral PIE in very preterm infants, positioning on the affected hemithorax without mechanical ventilation is a therapeutic option.