Characterization of atomization and delivery efficiency of exogenous surfactant in preterm infant lungs using an ex vivo respiratory model

TL;DR

This study evaluates the atomization and delivery efficiency of Curosurf surfactant using a novel device in an ex vivo rabbit lung model, showing promising results for treating preterm infant respiratory distress syndrome.

Contribution

It introduces a new spray technology for surfactant delivery and provides comprehensive physicochemical and deposition analysis in an ex vivo model.

Findings

Atomization did not significantly alter surface tension.

Vesicle size was reduced, promoting homogeneous lung distribution.

The device shows potential for improved surfactant delivery in preterm infants.

Abstract

Administration of pulmonary surfactant is crucial for the treatment of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in preterm infants. The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential of Curosurf atomization via the Endosurf device, a recently developed spray technology, as a promising approach for surfactant delivery in infants with RDS. A comprehensive analysis was performed to evaluate the physicochemical properties of atomized Curosurf, including its surface tension and rheology. The size distribution of Curosurf vesicles was also investigated. An ex vivo respiratory model based on rabbit lungs breathing through an instrumented hypobaric chamber representing the thorax of a preterm infant was developed to provide proof of concept for regional aerosol deposition of atomized Curosurf. The atomization of Curosurf with the innovative Endosurf device did not significantly alter surface tension, but reduced vesicle size and promoted homogeneous distribution of Curosurf in the lungs. Rheological measurements showed the viscoelastic complexity of atomized Curosurf. This preliminary study confirmed the promising potential of Curosurf atomization via the Endosurf device for the distribution of surfactant in the lungs of infants with RDS. These advances could help to improve the treatment of RDS in preterm infants and offer new perspectives for healthcare professionals and affected families.