Oxygen toxicity in premature infants

Abstract

With the current state of our knowledge regarding uses, hazards, and dangers, the cavalier offhanded attitude which in the past has all too frequently characterized oxygen use in the premature is no longer acceptable. Sufficient knowledge and technical expertise now exist in spezialized centers which will allow maximal benefit at minimum risk from oxygen usage. Where such centers are readily accessible, the need for oxygen therapy should be considered as a major criterion for transfer from a lesser to a more sophisticated newborn care unit.