Upper airway reflexes in newborns with respiratory distress syndrome.

In 16 newborns with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) not artificially ventilated, oesophageal pressure was recorded with an electromanometer and the reactions to mechanical stimulation of the upper airways by means of a nylon fibre were investigated. The results were compared with the values obtained in 16 newborns without cardiorespiratory disturbances. The reactions were evoked by mechanical stimulation of the airways.

Mechanics of breathing during sneezing and crying in premature newborns.

In 22 premature newborns the oesophageal pressure, airflow and tidal volume were recorded and the values of various parameters of breathing mechanics were calculated during sneezing and crying. The deep initial inspiration during sneezing occurred in only 20% of the newborns. In the expulsive phase of sneezing, the oesophageal pressure reached the mean value 7.

Effect of lung inflation on the respiratory frequency and heart rate of premature neonates.

Changes in the respiratory frequency and heart rate in response to 10 seconds' inflation of the lungs with oxygen by the CPAP method were studied in 32 premature neonates. Elevation of the pressure in the airways and lungs of 0.25, 0.

Protective and defensive airway reflexes in premature infants.

The incidence of respiratory reactions to stimulation of the nasal and propharyngeal mucose was studied in 44 newborn premature infants. The inhalation of menthol fumes or the administration of drops of Mukoseptonex to the nasal mucosa caused transient respiratory arrest or a drop in the respiration rate. The heart rate rose during chemical stimulation of the nasal mucosa, possibly in association with a general arousal reaction.