Design and implementation of a multicenter protocol to obtain impulse oscillometry data in preterm children

ABSTRACT Importance Objective measures of lung function are critical for assessing respiratory outcomes of prematurity. Among extremely low gestational age neonates (ELGANs) (< 29 weeks gestational age), high rates of neurodevelopmental impairment may interfere with lung function testing. Impulse oscillometry (IOS) is a noninvasive test of respiratory system mechanics not requiring forced expiration. Objective To describe a multicenter study design for respiratory follow‐up testing in a cohort with a high rate of extreme prematurity. Methods School‐age children enrolled in two prior trials of ELGANs and term controls were assessed by IOS at five centers. Groups consisted of children with prematurity with a high incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia, children with prematurity with no or minimal lung disease, and healthy term children. A rigorous centralized review process reviewed IOS studies for technical acceptability. Approach to design and implementation, rates of feasibility and success, and characteristics of participants are described. Results A total of 243 children were recruited, of whom 239 (98%) attempted oscillometry. There were high rates of technical acceptability across all three cohorts (85%–90% of attempted tests), and across all five centers (80%–94% of attempted tests). Respiratory and neuromotor clinical factors associated with testing failure included a higher number of days on ventilation during neonatal intensive care, a history of intraventricular hemorrhage grade 3 or 4, and gross motor functional impairment. Interpretation We report high rates of feasibility and success of oscillometry in a large multicenter ELGAN population, in whom neurological and developmental comorbidities likely play a confounding role. Among extremely low gestational age neonates (ELGANs) (