Breathing support methods for preterm infants

Respiratory Support and Brain Health in Preterm Infants: a Prospective Crossover Study

Mount Sinai Hospital, Canada · NCT05589831

This study is testing whether a new breathing support method for preterm infants can help them sleep better and stay healthier compared to the standard method.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages3 Days and up
SexAll
SponsorMount Sinai Hospital, Canada (other)
Locations1 site (Toronto, Ontario)
Trial IDNCT05589831 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study compares two methods of non-invasive breathing support in preterm infants born under 32 weeks gestation. The focus is on Neurally Adjusted Ventilatory Assist (NIV-NAVA) versus standard Non-Invasive Positive Pressure Ventilation (NIPPV) to assess their effects on sleep-wake cycling, cerebral oxygenation, heart rate variability, and diaphragm function. The study aims to determine if NIV-NAVA provides better neuroprotection and comfort for these vulnerable infants during their critical period of development.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are preterm infants born between 22 and 31 weeks gestation who are clinically stable and receiving non-invasive breathing support.

Not a fit: Patients with severe brain injuries, congenital abnormalities, or those who do not meet the stability criteria may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved respiratory support techniques that enhance brain development in preterm infants.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in improving outcomes for preterm infants with non-invasive ventilation techniques.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Preterm infants born between 22+0 and 31+6 weeks' GA
* Weight \> 500 g at the time of approach for consent
* A minimum of 3 days of age
* Clinically stable for \> 24 hours while receiving NIPPV or NIV-NAVA

Clinical stability will be defined as meeting all the following criteria for a 24 hour period prior to recruitment:

1. differences in maximum and minimum fractions of inspired oxygen (FiO2) of \<20%
2. differences in maximum and minimum MAP \<4 cm H2O
3. no active infection
4. no hypotension
5. no use of cardioactive medications or medical therapy for patent ductus arteriosus.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Infants with IVH of grade 3 or 4
* Birth weight \< 3rd percentile
* Genetic or congenital abnormalities

Where this trial is running

Toronto, Ontario

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Sleep, Cerebral Oxygenation, Neurally Adjusted Ventilatory Assist, Non-Invasive Positive Pressure Ventilation, Preterm Neonates, Amplitude integrated electroencephalography

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.