Early nasal continuous positive airway pressure for preterm neonates: the need for randomized trials

The use of early nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) as prophylaxis and treatment for respiratory distress syndrome in preterm neonates, with or without prophylactic surfactant, is becoming increasingly popular. However, the justification for this is limited to comparisons between centres and comparisons of historical controls.

Conclusion: Randomized trials and appropriate evaluation of the nCPAP technique are needed.