Less Invasive Surfactant Administration (LISA) Versus INSURE Method in Preterm Infants: a Retrospective Study.

Background: Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in preterm infants. Early nasal CPAP and selective administration of surfactant via the endotracheal tube are widely used in the treatment of RDS in preterm infants.

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the need for intubation and mechanical ventilation after surfactant delivery between LISA-treated and INSURE-treated premature infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS).

Methods: Retrospective registry-based cohort study enrolled 36 newborns admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit of the "Santa Maria" Hospital of Terni between 2016 and 2023. As a primary outcome, we followed the need for intubation and mechanical ventilation within 72 hours of life, while the secondary outcomes were major neonatal morbidities and death before discharge.

Results: The LISA group and the INSURE group included 13 and 23 newborns respectively. Demographic features showed no significant differences between the two groups. The need for mechanical ventilation in the first 72 hours of life was similar in both groups (p >0.99). There were no significant differences in morbidities.

Conclusion: LISA and INSURE are equally effective modalities for surfactant administration for the treatment of RDS in preterm infants.