Hypocapnia and hypercapnia in respiratory management of newborn infants

Many disorders during the neonatal period affect the ability of infants to maintain normal PaCO2. Both hypocapnia and hypercapnia may affect long-term outcomes in preterm and term infants. A more precise regulation of PaCO2 m ay prove to be of benefit because efforts are made to optimize short-term a nd long-term outcomes in critically ill neonates. This article addresses th e current evidence for the potential advantages and adverse consequences of both hypocapnia and hypercapnia in these vulnerable patients.