Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn

Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn

Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment

Treatment

The main goal of treatment for persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) is to increase oxygen levels to the baby's organs to avoid serious health problems. Treatment may include a wide range of mechanical ventilation and respiratory therapy options, including high frequency oscillatory ventilation and inhaled nitric oxide.

• Oxygen -- 100 percent supplemental oxygen may be given to your baby through a mask or plastic hood.

• Assisted Ventilation -- During this procedure, a tube is inserted into your baby's windpipe and a ventilator takes over your baby's breathing and oxygen is given.

• Nitric Oxide -- Research has shown that this gas is effective in treating PPHN because it relaxes contracted lung blood vessels and improves blood flow to the lungs. It is given through the ventilator.

• High Frequency Oscillatory Ventilation -- This type of ventilation may improve the oxygen level in the blood if other types of ventilation are not effective.

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

In addition, an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) machine may be used for patients who are experiencing serious heart or lung failure. It delivers oxygen to the brain and body as temporary support while the PPHN resolves. ECMO is similar to a heart-lung bypass machine, which takes over your baby's heart and lung functions with an external pump and oxygenator. Blood is drained from the patient to an artificial lung, where oxygen is added and carbon dioxide is removed, and then the blood is pumped back into your child.

At UCSF Children's Hospital, we treat over 20 patients each year with ECMO and our success outcomes are among the highest in the country. Our team of experts is specially trained in ECMO and includes a neonatologist, surgeon, respiratory therapists and nurses with special training in the management of ECMO.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Children's Hospital.
Last updated May 8, 2007