Publication:

Accuracy of lung ultrasound score in predicting the need for surfactant therapy in preterm neonates (less than 34 weeks)

Background Lung ultrasound is a useful bedside tool in assessing different respiratory conditions of neonate. It is an emerging method in guiding clinicians to predict the need for surfactant administration in RDS neonates.

Methods This study included 75 neonates less than 34 weeks requiring any form of respiratory support. Lung ultrasound score (LUS) was done initially at birth followed at 6-12 hours of life. Surfactant administration was based on clinical assessment.

Results The LUS at birth (mean (SD): 8.5±2.93) and LUS at 6-12 hours of life (mean (SD): 6.2±3.06) showed a significant association with the requirement of surfactant administration and re-administration. Wilcoxon Sign rank test showed a significant decrease in the LUS score at 6-12 hours from LUS at birth. Also, the study shows that requirement of CPAP had positive correlation with LUS at birth and LUS at 6-12 hours.

Conclusions The study shows significant association of LUS at birth and requirement of surfactant administration. Also, there is correlation between LUS at birth and LUS at 6-12 hours helping in predicting need for repeat dose of surfactant.