Trying to Prevent Meconium Aspiration Syndrome in Newborns

Only anecdotal data support the efficacy of intrapartum oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal suctioning to prevent meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS). Now, researchers have randomized 2514 full-term newborns with meconium-stained amniotic fluid to suctioning of the oropharynx and nasopharynx before delivery of the shoulders or to no suctioning. The trial was conducted at 11 sites in Argentina and 1 in the U.S. (6 in underserved communities). Postdelivery care in both groups was provided according to guidelines from the Neonatal Resuscitation Program of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

In both groups, MAS incidence was 4%. The two groups also did not differ significantly in the incidence of severe MAS, in mortality, or in mean durations of oxy…