Mechanics and energetics of breathing helium in infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia

The mechanics and energetics of breathing were studied in preterm infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia while spontaneously breathing control gas and helium-oxygen (Heliox) gas mixtures. During Heliox breathing, there was a significant decrease in pulmonary resistance, resistive work of breathing, and mechanical power of breathing, whereas ventilation remained unchanged. Breathing a lower density gas mixture (Heliox) may have therapeutic value by decreasing the demands on the respiratory muscles and the caloric requirements for breathing. Therefore, this modality may reduce potential respiratory muscle fatigue and avail additional calories for growth and recovery in the preterm infant with bronchopulmonary dysplasia.