Efficacy, Safety, and Usability of Remifentanil as Premedication for Insure in Preterm Neonates

Background : We previously reported a 67% extubation failure with INSURE (Intubation, Surfactant, Extubation) using morphine as analgosedative premedication. Remifentanil, a rapid- and short-acting narcotic, might be ideal for INSURE, but efficacy and safety data for this indication are limited. Objectives : To assess whether remifentanil premedication increases extubation success rates compared with morphine, and to evaluate remifentanil's safety and usability in a teaching hospital context. Methods : Retrospective review of remifentanil orders for premedication, at a large teaching hospital neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). We compared INSURE failure rates (needing invasive ventilation after INSURE) with prior morphine-associated rates. Additionally, we surveyed NICU staff to identify usability and logistic issues with remifentanil. Results : 73 remifentanil doses were administered to 62 neonates (mean 31.6 ± 3.8 weeks' gestation). Extubation was successful in 88%, vs. 33% with morphine premedication ( p Conclusions : Remifentanil premedication was superior to morphine in allowing successful extubation, despite occasional chest wall rigidity and unfavorable conditions for trainees. We recommend direct supervision and INSURE protocols aimed at ensuring rapid intubation

Anesthesia · Intubation · Premedication · Propofol · Remifentanil · Infant Development and Preterm Care · Medicine · Neonatal Respiratory Health Research · Pediatric Pain Management Techniques