We retrospectively evaluated 2 modes of CPAP use in neonates of <31 weeks gestation (born between 8/94 & 1/95) with RDS who were weaned off ventilators; all received Survanta®. CPAP at UCONN was delivered via nasal prongs; at MMC it was done via an endotracheal tube in the nasopharynx. No differences were seen in the use of antenatal steroids, indomethacin (for PDA closure), incidence of confirmed sepsis, gastroesophageal reflux, cranial sonographic findings & bronchopulmonary dysplasia. (Mean ± sem;#p=0.02, ##p<0.03, ** p<0.0001, $p=0.002; Mann-Whitney test). After controlling for weight and diuretic use, there was a significant (p=0.0002, ANCOVA) increase in the CPAP courses at MMC. We speculate that this could be related to increased irritation and swelling of the nasal passages by the longer endotracheal tube versus the nasal prongs in babies who are obligatory nose-breathers. Table

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