Early extubation following cardiac surgery in neonates and infants.

摘要

We read with great interest the paper by Winch et al. [1]. However/we do not agree with their bold approach concerning immediate extubation in neonates and infants following cardiac surgery. Postoperative mechanical ventilation for hours or even days, has been the standard practice in infants and children undergoing cardiac surgery. Although early extubation is associated with lower costs and reduced adverse events related to the endotracheal tube and prolonged mechanical ventilation [2], we believe that immediate extubation in the operating room is associated with great challenges that need further discussion.