PROPHYLACTIC USE OF SURFACTANT IN LATE PRETERM INFANTS WITH RESPIRATORY DISTRESS: A PROSPECTIVE STUDY

Abstract

Late preterm infants account for a significant proportion of preterm births and are at increased risk for respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) due to their immature lungs. The use of surfactant replacement therapy is well-established for the treatment of RDS in preterm 
infants.Late preterm infants account for a significant proportion of preterm births and are at increased risk for respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) due to their immature lungs. The use of surfactant replacement therapy is well-established for the treatment of RDS in preterm infants.The incidence of RDS was significantly lower in the intervention group compared to the control group (5% vs. 35%, p=0.002). The severity of RDS was also significantly lower in the intervention group (p=0.02).Prophylactic surfactant therapy is effective in reducing the incidence and severity of RDS in late preterm infants with respiratory distress. It also reduces the need for mechanical ventilation.