Humidified high flow nasal cannula for respiratory support in infants

Abstract

Humidified high flow nasal cannula (HHFNC) has been suggested as an alternative form of respiratory support for preterm infants with apnea, respiratory distress syndrome or chronic lung disease, they appear to be easy to apply and care for. Although, HHFNC may provide positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP), limited evidence is available to support the specific role, efficacy, and safety of HHFNC in newborns. The evidence suggests that HHFNC provides inconsistent and relatively unpredictable positive airway pressure, but may be effective in the treatment of some neonatal respiratory conditions while being more user-friendly for caregivers than conventional nCPAP. Caution should be exercised in the use of HHFNC in neonates until further evidence is available to clearly delineate its role and support its safety and efficacy. The current controversy and the available data regarding the use of HHFNC in providing noninvasive respiratory support in newborn infants are reviewed and presented herein.