A preterm neonate born at 30 weeks gestation develops respiratory distress. The team decides to administer surfactant via the INSURE technique (INtubation, SURfactant, Extubation). Compared to prolonged mechanical ventilation with surfactant, what is the PRIMARY benefit of this approach?

• A Reduces the risk of patent ductus arteriosus
• B Prevents periventricular leukomalacia
• C Lowers the rate of late-onset sepsis
• D Decreases the incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia ✓

Explanation

The INSURE technique allows early extubation to CPAP after surfactant administration, minimizing ventilator-induced lung injury. Multiple randomized trials demonstrate that this approach reduces the incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia compared to prolonged mechanical ventilation. While other complications may be indirectly affected, BPD reduction is the primary documented benefit.

Reference: Fanaroff and Martin's Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, 11th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.