| From: Dr Paul {:~)} (Avatar) | 30/04/2001
13:47:29 |
| Subject: re: Youngest preme Baby? | post id:
290116 |
| Hi SteveDeP, the main problem with premature babies is the lack of development of lecithin layer on the 'exterior' surface of the lungs. Lecithin is a fatty substance which lowers the surface tension of the alveoli. This allows the lungs to expand and contract at the alveolar level allowing good O2 exchange. Without the lecithin layer, the lungs are difficult to inflate, so premature babies have serious breathing problems. In addition to this, many moons ago, there was a question on liquid breathing. In the States, there has been research on using such systems (the fluorocarbon liquids with high dissolved O2) for very premature babies. From memory of reading about these, the application of the liquid for O2 delivery, rather than air, means it is easier for the lungs to expand (the relative surface tension is lower between the lung and the liquid as compared to the lung and the air). Also, you can deliver drugs AND lecithin to the lung surface whilst the babies are breathing this liquid. I thought it was great research. Paul | |