Aerosolized surfactant in neonatal respiratory distress syndrome: Phase I study.

Background: Treating respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) with intratracheal surfactant requires endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation, (MV) with their attendant risks. Use of non-invasive respiratory support in the delivery room averts the need for MV but delays surfactant administration.

Objective: We hypothesized that aerosolized surfactant is feasible and safe in infants 24-36 weeks gestational age (GA) with RDS, receiving non-invasive respiratory support.