An update on the use of surfactant in neonates

Abstract 

Surfactant replacement therapy has become an established treatment for neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). This article reviews the current evidence for the various practices regarding the use of surfactant in this condition, looking at surfactant type, timing of the first dose, size and frequency of the dose and the need for further doses. As the use of surfactant is expanding into other lung diseases in adults as well as children, we also review those neonatal conditions where surfactant may be of benefit and summarize the evidence published to date supporting its use in these conditions.

Keywords:  Pulmonary surfactant, Respiratory distress syndrome, Pneumonia, Meconium aspiration syndrome, Bronchiolitis, Pulmonary haemorrhage