Cochrane Review summary: High flow nasal cannula for respiratory support in preterm infants

In the preterm infant requiring respiratory support for apnoea, respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) or chronic lung disease (CLD), a variety of non-invasive ventilation options are available. Nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is commonly used as an alternative to endotracheal intubation and more recently, high flow nasal cannula (HFNC) is being used to deliver positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP), oxygen, blended oxygen and air. Both methods however may have adverse effects despite being moderately easy to apply and manage. The most significant risks related to nasal CPAP are nasal trauma and distortion of the nares, and for HFNC, mucosal irritation, obstruction, nosocomial infection and possible lung injury from PEEP which is not measured and inconsistent. The aim of this Cochrane Review was to compare the safety and efficacy of HFNC with other forms of non-invasive respiratory support in preterm infants