Objective: To compare retrospectively ventilation parameters and clinical features in the neonatal period that may explain the audiological sequelae in survivors of High Frequency Jet Ventilation (HFJV).

Background: In our institution the rescue mechanism for infants that fail on conventional ventilation is HFJV. In follow up there was an increased incidence of sensorineural hearing loss, which has been reported in other studies of high frequency ventilation. Methods: A retrospective chart review, audiology and developmental data was completed on all infants that survived HFJV from 1992-1994 inclusive. Parents were also contacted for a telephone survey. Results: Two groups were identified - group A infants with normal hearing and group B infants with sensorineural hearing loss. Gestational age, sex ratio, weight and pulmonary diagnosis were comparable in the two groups. A standard severity score (CRIB) pre-HFJV was not significant between the groups. Integration of the pCO2 (< 20 mm Hg) over time was higher in group B; however, the absolute figures for hypocarbia were not significant. Data represents mean± standard deviation.

Conclusion: The high incidence of hearing impairment may be related to the severity of illness as denoted by the OI, MAP and length of time on the HFJV. Table

Table 1
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