A variable flow NCPAP device may be more effective in treating AOP in preterm infants than a conventional ventilator in NIPPV mode. It remains unclear whether synchronised NIPPV would be even more effective.

Bridging bronchus (BB) is a rare, congenital bronchial anomaly that is frequently associated with congenital cardiac malformations, especially left pulmonary artery sling. It represents an anomalous bronchus to the right originating from the left main bronchus. Discrimination from other bronchial anomalies is important, since BB is frequently associated with bronchial stenoses due to abnormal cartilage rings.This case study describes the findings of bronchoscopy, bronchography and multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) in three patients. Bronchoscopy was helpful in the description of the severity and length of bronchial stenoses. However, it was not possible to establish a diagnosis of BB based on this method in two patients, since it is difficult or even impossible to differentiate the bifurcation from the pseudocarina. It was not possible to establish the correct diagnosis in all patients based on bronchography or MDCT. MDCT was able to depict the relationship of bronchial and vascular structures, which is particularly important in patients with pulmonary artery sling.Multidetector computed tomography is preferable to bronchography as it is less invasive and due to its short acquisition time it can be performed in children with severe respiratory disease. In the current authors' experience, detection of cartilage rings still requires flexible bronchoscopy.

The alarm documentation by neonatal intensive care unit staff does not appear to be sufficiently accurate to permit further understanding and treatment of AOP. It is unclear if the alarms missed here would have led to clinical consequences had they been documented.

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is one of the most common long-term complications and treatment challenges in preterm infants. Theoretically, inhaled corticosteroids may suppress pulmonary inflammation without causing systemic side-effects, while bronchodilators will improve airway resistance and thereby work of breathing. This article reviews current data on these drugs in BPD prevention or treatment. Trials published to date have not demonstrated that regular bronchodilator administration influences the incidence of BPD or improves long-term outcome. Inhaled steroids started before 2 weeks of age may improve rates of successful extubation and reduce the need for rescue systemic glucocorticoids, but have not been shown to reduce the incidence of BPD. Thus, their use cannot be generally recommended. The data currently available are not sufficient to give any clearer recommendation on the use of these drugs in infants at high risk of, or established, BPD.

No significant advantage of a head-up tilt or a three-level position over a standard horizontal position could be confirmed.