[Aspiration of meconium stained amniotic fluid (author's transl)].

Respiratory distress following aspiration of meconium stained amniotic fluid can be found in about 3% of newborn infants. The lethality rate of this disease is high. Pathophysiology and variability of the clinical course as well as radiological findings and further diagnostic procedures are being described. The therapeutic concept requires recognition of meconium stained amniotic fluid as early as possible, early suctioning of the nasopharynx, intubation and endotracheal suction. Further therapy consists in physical procedures, i. e. lavage, suctioning, positioning, vibration and percussing of the chest, and inhalation. Antibiotics can only be recommended if infection of the amniotic fluid has been proven.