Preterm babies will be in a position to breathe well, thanks to the artificial lung system.
An artificial lung that can support preterm and newborn babies with Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) has been developed by a team of researchers in Germany.
The research team leader and Chief of paediatrics at the Nuremberg General Hospital, Germany, Dr Christoph Fusch, said, “Upon birth, babies take over breathing, feeding and other organ functions that were being provided in utero through the placenta. If this transition of functions from the placenta to the baby is disturbed by premature birth or disease, the new device will come in and enable neonatal caregivers to mimic the intrauterine supply of functions.”
Dr. Virginia Kiarie, a pediatrician, stated that insufficient surfactant causes RDS in preterm babies or newborns who are unable to breathe independently.
The pediatrician explained that a surfactant is a
substance that allows the tiny air sacs in the lungs known as alveoli to remain open and facilitate easier gas exchange in babies. Also, most preterm babies have inadequate surfactant by week 37.
Dr. Kiarie said, “Babies start developing surfactant at week 26, which means that the surfactant made by week 37 is largely insufficient. This leads to respiratory distress,” she said. “Without adequate surfactant, the alveoli are shattered and the damaged cells are collected in airways. This makes breathing for newborns an impossible task, especially in the first few days.”
The development of the artificial lung is quite a relief as it will enhance the health of newborn babies.
The artificial lung is a portable device that does not need external power, which will make it affordable in developing countries. It replaces the placenta by performing the blood oxygenation function for the babies until they can breathe independently.
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