Less invasive surfactant administration as a means to facilitate gentler transition for preterm infants? A narrative review

: Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is a common challenge for those caring for preterm infants. In RDS, the underlying cause is pulmonary surfactant deficiency or inactivity. Exogenous surfactant administration is the standard treatment. Conventionally, surfactant is delivered to the lungs via an endotracheal tube, usually followed by a period of mechanical ventilation. Alternatives to endotracheal intubation and prolonged ventilation...