Increased Mean Airway Pressure Is Associated With Successful Transition to a Portable Home Ventilator in Patients With Grade 3 Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia

Objectives An estimated 23% of children with grade 3 bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) require tracheostomy for long term positive pressure ventilation. Transition from an intensive care unit (ICU) ventilator to a portable home ventilator (PHV) is one of the key steps in the process of discharging a patient home. The objective of this study was to identify clinical factors and ventilator settings associated with successful transition to a PHV in infants with grade 3 BPD. Study Design We performed a retrospective record review of 74 ventilator‐dependent infants with grade 3 BPD hospitalized at 15 centers within the BPD Collaborative who transitioned to PHV between March 2021 and March 2023. Hierarchical cluster analysis of patient demographics and ICU ventilator settings at the time of transition was identify similar groups and compare factors associated with successful transitions. Results Patients with higher mean airway pressure (MAP) on the PHV compared with the MAP on their ICU ventilator were more likely to successfully transition on the first attempt, had fewer days from their first attempt until successful transition, and transitioned at an earlier postmenstrual age than patients with a lower MAP on their PHV. Cluster analysis of baseline ICU ventilator settings did not predict successful transition to PHV. Conclusions We conclude that higher PHV pressures may enable patients with severe BPD to transition to a PHV. Premature weaning of ventilator pressures may be associated with prolonged need for an ICU ventilator.