[Search for early indications for reintubation after mechanical ventilation weaning of the newborn].

Early predictive factors for successful extubation were investigated, in order to determine the best moment for respiratory weaning of the newborn, and the risk of subsequent reintubation. PaO2/FiO2 ratio, PCO2 and respiratory rate were measured 2 h after extubation in 100 newborn infants. There was no statistically significant difference for the PaO2/FiO2 ratio and PCO2 between infants who were successfully extubated (group 1) and those who required subsequent reintubation (group 2). By contrast, the respiratory rate 2 h after extubation was significantly higher in group 2, and a respiratory rate greater than 70/min appears to be the earliest ventilatory modification predictive of the need for further mechanical ventilation before the occurrence of hypoxemia and respiratory acidosis.