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Current Concepts in the Management of Meconium Aspiration Syndrome

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Abstract

In developing countries, meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality among neonates. The concepts of pathophysiology and management of meconium stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) and meconium aspiration syndrome have undergone tremendous change in recent years. Routine intranatal and postnatal endotracheal suctioning of meconium in vigorous infants is no longer recommended. Recent studies have challenged its role even in non-vigorous infants. Supportive therapy like oxygen supplementation, mechanical ventilation and intravenous fluids are the cornerstone in the management of meconium aspiration syndrome. Availability of surfactant, inhaled nitric oxide, high frequency ventilators and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation has made it possible to salvage more infants with meconium aspiration syndrome. In this review the authors have discussed the current concepts in the pathophysiology and management of MAS. Drugs in trials and future therapeutic targets are also discussed briefly.

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Contributions

SC did the literature search and prepared the initial draft. BVB and AB edited the manuscript. BVB will act as guarantor.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Neonatology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Pondicherry, 605 006, India

    Subhash Chettri, B. Vishnu Bhat & B. Adhisivam

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  1. Subhash Chettri
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  2. B. Vishnu Bhat
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  3. B. Adhisivam
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Correspondence to B. Vishnu Bhat.

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Chettri, S., Bhat, B.V. & Adhisivam, B. Current Concepts in the Management of Meconium Aspiration Syndrome. Indian J Pediatr 83, 1125–1130 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12098-016-2128-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12098-016-2128-9

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