Acoustics as a Metric of Airway Pressure in Premature Infants Using Bubble Continuous Positive Airway Pressure

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the use of bubble continuous positive airway pressure (bCPAP) in preterm infants born before 32 weeks gestation. This observational, proof-of-concept study aims to understand how the sounds produced by the bubbling in the bCPAP device relate to the airway pressures delivered to the infant's lungs. The goal is to develop models that predict these pressures from the acoustic properties of the bubbling sounds, potentially offering a new way to monitor therapy effectiveness in real time. The study involves two groups of 15 preterm infants each, all receiving bCPAP treatment in the neonatal intensive care unit. Group 1 will have their external bubble sounds and CPAP system pressures recorded using a microphone on the water tank and a pressure transducer in the expiratory limb for 3 hours. Group 2 will have similar measurements plus internal sounds and pressures recorded via a wireless sensor placed on the infant's suprasternal notch and an internal pressure transducer inserted into the nasopharynx, also for 3 hours. During the study, participants will be monitored for 3 hours with continuous recording of pressures and acoustic data. Researchers will assess external and internal bubble sounds alongside airway pressures. Data collection uses specialized devices to capture and store sound and pressure information for later analysis. The study helps evaluate the relationship between acoustic signals and pressure delivery in preterm infants on bCPAP, with the entire study expected to run until December 2026.

Acoustics as a Metric of Airway Pressure in Premature Infants Using Bubble Continuous Positive Airway Pressure