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Evidence · Systematic review or meta-analysis

Carbon dioxide levels in neonates: what are safe parameters?

Systematic review or meta-analysisPediatric Research2022Full text
  • Bronchopulmonary dysplasia
  • Congenital diaphragmatic hernia
  • Eyes and hearing
  • Intraventricular haemorrhage and white matter injury
  • Mechanical ventilation
  • Medical
  • Neurology
  • Nursing
  • Pneumothorax and air leak
  • Respiratory
  • Retinopathy of prematurity
  • Surgical conditions

Summary

Systematic review (PRISMA/MOOSE) of 37 studies examining the effects of hypocapnia and hypercapnia and reported carbon dioxide thresholds in term and preterm neonates. Hypocapnia was mainly associated with neurological harm, while hypercapnia was linked with neurological, respiratory and gastrointestinal outcomes and retinopathy of prematurity. Permissive hypercapnia did not reduce PVL, ROP, hydrocephalus or air leak, and parameters described for BPD and CDH are summarised. The authors note limited safety data and infer a safe pCO2 range, calling for further research.

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