Bubble CPAP: can we predict success or failure?

Current modalities of ventilatory assistance in the management of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in preterm infants range from continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) to various modes of mechanical ventilation. The use of CPAP has been associated with a lower incidence of chronic lung disease when used as the initial respiratory support. In contrast, mechanical ventilation has the potential to injure the airways and lung parenchyma.