TO COMPARE THE INCIDENCE OF COMPLICATIONS IN NEWBORN VENTILATED WITH NIPPV (VS) CONVENTIONAL VENTILATION WITH RDS

Background:  Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is a leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality, especially in preterm infants. Mechanical ventilation is often required but carries significant risks. Objective:To compare the incidence of complications in neonates with RDS managed with NIPPV versus those receiving conventional mechanical ventilation. Methods: Study Design and Setting: This comparative observational study was conducted in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of PNS Shifa Hospital, Karachi, from 15th May 2025 to 14th August 2025. Sample Size and Sampling: A total of 185 neonates with a diagnosis of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) were included using non-probability consecutive sampling. Results:The incidence of BPD, pneumothorax, and VAP was significantly lower in the NIPPV group (9.8%, 3.3%, and 2.2%, respectively) compared to the conventional group (22.6%, 11.8%, and 16.1%, respectively). Nasal trauma was noted only in the NIPPV group (8.7%). Gastrointestinal distension was more common in the NIPPV group (13.0%) than in the conventional group (5.4%), though not statistically significant. The NIPPV group had shorter durations of ventilation (38.6 ± 12.4 hrs vs. 72.1 ± 18.7 hrs, p < 0.001) and NICU stay (10.2 ± 3.6 days vs. 13.7 ± 4.9 days, p < 0.001). Mortality rates did not differ significantly between groups. Conclusion: NIPPV is associated with fewer serious complications and improved short-term clinical outcomes compared to conventional ventilation in neonates with RDS. While minor complications such as nasal trauma and gastrointestinal distension were more frequent with NIPPV, these were manageable.