Respiratory failure at birth is a major cause of death and disease in newborn infants. At birth the airways must be cleared of liquid to allow the inhalation of air, but, little is known about the process of lung aeration, because it has not been possible to observe or measure it. We have developed imaging and analytical techniques to observed and measure lung aeration. We will determine ventilation procedures that promote uniform lung aeration and minimise lung injury in ventilated infants.
Defining Regional Lung Mechanics To Improve Lung Protective Ventilation Strategies In Newborn Infants
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$287,321.00
Summary
Over 3000 newly born infants require mechanical ventilation in Australia every year. The majority are very premature infants. About 30% of ventilated infants develop serious ventilator induced lung injury. Minimising such lung injury with improved techniques of ventilation which can protect the lung from injury will reduce the considerable short and long term health burden of this population.
Reducing Morbidities In Preterm Growth Restricted Neonates.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$687,214.00
Summary
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a serious complication of pregnancy and occurs when fetal growth is abnormal, resulting in a fetus that is smaller than it should be for its given gestational age. IUGR babies are at much greater risk of many short and long-term adverse outcomes. This study investigates the role that adverse cardiovascular development plays in the progression of lung, heart and brain disease in preterm IUGR newborns.