Complications in the use of mechanical ventilator in newborns: one year's experience

A retrospective study was undertaken of 175 patients (119 males, 56 females) admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit of Mackay Memorial Hospital during the period of July 1, 1985 to June 30, 1986 who received mechanical ventilation during their stay at the hospital. Upon reviewing the clinical histories of these patients, the complication rate of mechanical ventilation was 31.9%. The percentages of each complication were: pneumothorax 50.0%, pneumomediastinum 5.2%, pulmonary interstitial emphysema 1.7%, atelectasia 13.8%, pneumonia 13.8%, chronic lung disease 13.8%, nasopharyngeal infection 1.7%. Survival rate of these ventilated patients with or without complication was not significant statistically (69.2% vs 65.6%). However, with regard to the hospital course, cases with complication had a significantly longer duration of ventilator usage, hospital stay and oxygen usage than uncomplicated cases. In conclusion, experienced personnel are needed to supervise the use of mechanical ventilation in neonates, and a team of well-trained nurses working in the neonatal intensive care unit are essential to minimize complications.