Evidence for oxygen use in preterm infants

Abstract

Aim: To review the evidence for optimal oxygen use in preterm infants.

Results: Clinicians have embraced lower saturation targets to minimize retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Large randomized trials now have shown that while such targets reduce ROP, neonatal mortality is increased significantly.

Conclusions: Preterm infants should be resuscitated with blended oxygen (30-90%) targeted to avoid hyperoxia. Later, saturation management remains uncertain. Until ongoing trials and follow-up are complete, it is prudent to avoid saturation of 85-89%.