Theoretical open-loop model of respiratory mechanics in the extremely preterm infant

TL;DR

This paper presents a nonlinear model of respiratory mechanics in extremely preterm infants, highlighting how chest wall compliance and interventions like CPAP influence lung volume loss and breathing support.

Contribution

It introduces a novel empirical model incorporating nonlinear compliances and volume loss, aiding understanding of respiratory mechanics in fragile preterm infants.

Findings

High chest wall compliance accelerates lung volume loss.

Laryngeal braking and CPAP delay lung volume loss.

Chest stiffening improves breathing stability.

Abstract

Non-invasive ventilation is increasingly used for respiratory support in preterm infants, and is associated with a lower risk of chronic lung disease. However, this mode is often not successful in the extremely preterm infant in part due to their markedly increased chest wall compliance that does not provide enough structure against which the forces of inhalation can generate sufficient pressure. To address the continued challenge of studying treatments in this fragile population, we developed a nonlinear lumped-parameter model of respiratory system mechanics of the extremely preterm infant that incorporates nonlinear lung and chest wall compliances and lung volume parameters tuned to this population. In particular we developed a novel empirical representation of progressive volume loss based on compensatory alveolar pressure increase resulting from collapsed alveoli. The model demonstrates increased rate of volume loss related to high chest wall compliance, and simulates laryngeal braking for elevation of end-expiratory lung volume and constant positive airway pressure (CPAP). The model predicts that low chest wall compliance (chest stiffening) in addition to laryngeal braking and CPAP enhance breathing and delay lung volume loss. These results motivate future data collection strategies and investigation into treatments for chest wall stiffening.