Pulse Oximetry Targets in Extremely Premature Infants and Associated Mortality: One-Size May Not Fit All.

Abstract

Oxygen saturation targets in premature infants have been investigated in multiple international randomized controlled trials. Some trials have shown increased mortality with targeting lower (85% to 89%) compared to higher (91% to 95%) oxygen saturation ranges, while others have not. We will review the mortality outcomes of the largest multi-centered trials and a post hoc study that observed increased mortality at lower target ranges among small for gestational age infants. The planned Neonatal Oxygen Prospective Meta-analysis (NeOProM) collaborative will hopefully provide further insight into patient-specific risks, which include growth status.