MECONIUM ASPIRATION SYNDROME

Meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) is found in 0.2-6 per 1000 lifeborn neonates. Aspiration of meconium particles may occur before, during o r after delivery, associated with deep inspiratory movements due to fe tal depression. Aspiration of meconium may cause mechanical obstructio n of the airways, chemical pneumonitis, and surfactant inactivation. T he disease is commonly associated with the development of pulmonary hy pertension and severe respiratory insufficiency. MAS may be prevented, at least in some infants: by appropriate suctioning at birth. Great p rogess has been made in the treatment: early administration of surfact ant improves gas exchange in many neonates, High frequency oscillatory ventilation, NO-inhalation and extracorporal membrane oxygenation hav e a role in severe respiratory failure.