Pharyngeal pressure in preterm infants receiving nasal continuous positive airway pressure

Abstract

Pharyngeal pressures in 11 preterm infants, receiving binasal Hudson prong continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) pressurised by bubbling bottles, were measured. The mean (95% confidence interval) pressure drop from the prongs to the pharynx was 3.2 (2.6 to 3.7) cm H₂O with mouths open and 2.2 (1.6 to 2.8) cm H₂O with mouths closed. Mouth closure augments CPAP transmission.