Neonatal nitric oxide use: predictors of response and financial implications

Abstract

Objective: To determine predictors of sustained response to inhaled nitric oxide (INO) and the financial impact of INO commercialization.

Design/methods: We evaluated the records of extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)-eligible infants consecutively treated with INO. We calculated the charges for INO therapy and for ECMO for each patient so treated. PUBLISHED BY ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD.

Results: In total, 52 (59%) of 88 infants avoided ECMO; all received INO for >48 hours; all survived. A total of 36 infants received ECMO; 21 infants after <24 hours of INO; seven infants after 24 to 48 hours; and eight infants >48 hours of INO; one infant died. In total, 51 infants had sustained responses to INO; 19 infants were nonresponders and 18 were transient responders. Infants with PPHN and those older than 24 hours were more likely to respond to INO. Total INO charges for all 88 infants were $1,048,000. Total ECMO charges for the 36 infants so treated were $1,710,000.

Conclusions: INO has added a charge-saving therapy to selective infants who can avoid ECMO.