FUZZY-LOGIC ASSISTED CONTROL OF INSPIRED OXYGEN IN VENTILATED NEWBORN-INFANTS

The control of oxygen delivery to mechanically ventilated newborn infa nts is a time intensive process that must balance adequate tissue oxyg enation against possible toxic effects of oxygen exposure. Investigati on in computer assisted control of mechanical ventilation is increasin g, although very few studies involve newborn infants. We have implemen ted a fuzzy controller for the adjustment of inspired oxygen concentra tion (FIO2) in ventilated newborns. The controller utilizes rules prod uced by neonatologists, and operates in real-time. A clinical trial of this controller is currently taking place in the neonatal intensive c are unit (NICU) of Children's Hospital, Boston, MA.