This is a review of a blog written by Kuruc et al on April 15, 2016:
https://annakuruc.wordpress.com/2016/04/15/bronchopulmonary-dysplasia/
Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia is a condition that is unavoidable in our opinion, especially in infants born at very low gestational period. As you have mentioned, these infants are usually born at a critical point in development. The alveoli of the lungs have not yet developed and most lack surfactant that coats the lining of lungs. Therefore, these infants are born with respiratory distress syndrome which includes shallow breathing and in some cases collapsed lungs. These infants require immediate lifesaving therapies that are available including oxygen therapies, ventilation and even medication. Unfortunately, these treatments are often used for an extended period of time, which may lead to BPD. Consequently, in many cases, BPD cannot be avoided. However, we do believe the severity of BPD can be reduced and it is at this point that RTs play a vital role. It is important for RTs to implement respiratory care interventions that are supported by research to mitigate or prevent RDS. This will ensure that outdated practices are not used, which subsequently worsen RDS and can later cause BPD. Lastly, we believe continuous research to improve the available treatment will generate information that will allow RTs to provide the most appropriate care to these tiny patients.
Kelvin Opoku, Ryan Cutro, Afnan Al Raimi, Erin Sventy
Take a Deep breath 