2 Oscillatory Ventilation in the Treatment of Neonatal Respiratory Diseases

The premature lung is structurally immature, fluid-filled, and surfactant-deficient, leading to the development of a variety of respiratory disorders in neonates. The challenge in clinical practice lies in providing adequate gas exchange through ventilation techniques that minimize any adverse effects on lung development. Non-invasive methods of ventilation have thus become an increasingly popular area of research. This chapter focuses on such methods that use pressure oscillations in conjunction with traditional respiratory support techniques to treat neonatal respiratory diseases. Current research and developments in “noisy” ventilation, high-frequency ventilation and oscillatory continuous positive airway pressure are discussed, thereby outlining the promise they show in future developments in neonatal respiratory care.