Higher versus lower oxygen concentrations titrated to target oxygen saturations during resuscitation of preterm infants at birth

Abstract

This is the protocol for a review and there is no abstract. The objectives are as follows: To determine whether higher or lower initial oxygen concentrations then titrated according to oxygen saturation targeting during the resuscitation of preterm infants at birth lead to improved short and long term mortality and morbidity. Primary comparison: Any of the lower concentrations of oxygen (21%, air, > 21% to 29% (very low); ≤ 30% to 39% (low)) versus any of the higher concentrations of oxygen (≤ 40% to 59% (high); ≤ 60% to 100% (very high)). The primary comparison will be analysed in subgroups within the same analysis. We plan to carry out the following subgroup analyses: targeted oxygen saturation (low or high upper target limit for titration, < 85%; 85% to 90%; 91% to 95%; > 95%); type of oxygen saturation monitor (fractional or functional oxygen saturation); gestation (< 28 weeks; 28 weeks to 32 weeks; 33 weeks to 36 weeks). Secondary analyses: Studies that compare two oxygen concentrations that may considered to be either in the lower or the higher ranges will not be included in the primary analyses. Secondary analyses will be performed for these studies that compare two groups both in the lower, or higher, oxygen concentration range (for example 50% versus 100%).