[New principles for mechanical ventilation of neonates and infants. High-frequency ventilation].

The aim of high frequency ventilation is to improve survival and to reduce development of chronic lung disease. The most commonly used principles of high frequency ventilation in neonates are discussed on the basis of the pathophysiology and development of lung injuries. During the year 1993, seven critically ill infants were treated with high frequency flow interruption and six with high frequency oscillation ventilation. The treatment was lifesaving, while conventional ventilation had failed. Both oxygenation and ventilation improved rapidly. In the future, our indications for high frequency ventilation will probably be extended.