Respiratory Distress Syndrome (& [Hyaline Membrane Disease])NCT07550218
Surfactant Administration Methods in Preterm Infants With RDS: A Swedish Cohort Study
An observational study of Respiratory Distress Syndrome (& [Hyaline Membrane Disease]) and Respiratory Distress Syndrome (Neonatal), run by Vastra Gotaland Region at 1 site in Sweden.
Trial summary
The goal of this observational study is to evaluate different methods of surfactant administration in preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Preterm infants often have immature lungs and a deficiency of surfactant, a substance that helps keep the lungs open and supports oxygen exchange.Surfactant… Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Any age
- Conditions the study is for
- Respiratory Distress Syndrome (& [Hyaline Membrane Disease]), Respiratory Distress Syndrome (Neonatal), Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS)
- How many people
- 300 participants
- Where
- 1 siteSweden
- Study dates
- 25 May 2026to 25 Oct 2029
- How long will I take part?
- 6 Years
- Phase
- Observational
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages Any age
- All sexes
- No healthy volunteers
- Child, Adult, Older adult
Study population: Newborn infants admitted to neonatal units in Västra Götaland Region, Sweden.
Who may be able to join
- Patient has received surfactant by any administration method
- Gestational age below 37 weeks'
- First surfactant treatment given before 48 hours of age
- Confirmed or suspected diagnosis of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS)
Who cannot join
- Not fulfilling above inclusion criteria
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Sweden1 site, 1 recruiting
- Recruiting
Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Sahlgrenska University Hostal
Gothenburg, 416 50
Mårten Larsson, M.D., +46 31 343 41 83, marten.larsson@vgregion.se
Anders Elfvin, Professor, M.D, Ph.D, +46 31 343 41 83, anders.elfvin@vgregion.se
About this study
Official title: A Prospective Observational Study of Surfactant AdministrationMethods for Preterm Infants With Respiratory Distress SyndromeWith Long-term Follow-up in the Swedish Neonatal Quality Register
The goal of this observational study is to evaluate different methods of surfactant administration in preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Preterm infants often have immature lungs and a deficiency of surfactant, a substance that helps keep the lungs open and supports oxygen exchange.Surfactant can be delivered to the lungs using different techniques, including INSURE (brief intubation), LISA (via a thin catheter), SALSA (via a laryngeal mask airway), and traditional administration via endotracheal intubation followed by mechanical ventilation. The main question this study aims to answer is:Which method of surfactant administration is associated with better clinical outcomes in preterm infants with RDS?The study will prospectively collect clinical data on infants receiving surfactant as part of standard care, with long-term follow-up using data from the Swedish Neonatal Quality Register. The results are intended to be used to inform the design of a future randomized multicenter study.
Read the detailed description
Background Complications of preterm birth are the leading cause of child mortality worldwide, with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) as a major contributor. RDS is primarily caused by surfactant deficiency due to immature lungs. Early surfactant therapy, in combination with antenatal corticosteroids and non-invasive respiratory support such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), is central to treatment. However, mechanical ventilation is associated with an increased risk of lung injury and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), prompting the development of less invasive surfactant administration techniques.
Surfactant Administration Methods Three main methods are currently used in spontaneously breathing preterm infants. The INSURE method involves transient intubation for surfactant delivery followed by extubation. Less Invasive Surfactant Administration (LISA) uses a thin catheter inserted below the vocal cords under laryngoscopy, allowing continued spontaneous breathing. LISA is recommended as first-line treatment in European guidelines due to improved outcomes compared to INSURE. However, both methods require laryngoscopy and are technically demanding, with potential adverse events.
Surfactant Administration via Laryngeal or Supraglottic Airways (SALSA) is a newer, less invasive technique that delivers surfactant via a supraglottic airway without laryngoscopy or passage through the vocal cords. Preliminary studies suggest comparable effectiveness to INSURE and CPAP, with potential safety advantages. Historically, SALSA has been limited to larger infants due to lack of appropriately sized devices, but newly available CE-marked devices now enable its use in extremely preterm infants.
Rationale Despite widespread use of INSURE, LISA, and SALSA, there are no direct comparisons between LISA and SALSA, and real-world data on their implementation, safety, and outcomes are limited. In Sweden, these methods are used variably across neonatal units, and their relative use and outcomes have not been systematically evaluated. The availability of smaller supraglottic airway devices now allows evaluation of SALSA in the most vulnerable population, including extremely preterm infants.
Aim The primary aim is to prospectively evaluate and compare the feasibility, safety, clinical performance, and procedural characteristics of surfactant administration methods (SALSA, LISA, INSURE) in spontaneously breathing preterm infants in a real-world clinical setting.
Secondary aims include comparison with infants receiving surfactant via intubation followed by mechanical ventilation, evaluation of short- and long-term clinical outcomes, and generation of data to inform the design of a future randomized multicentre trial.
Study Design This is a prospective, multicentre, observational study conducted in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) in Region Västra Götaland (VGR), Sweden. No interventions are introduced, and all treatment decisions are made according to local clinical guidelines.
Study Population Eligible participants are preterm infants (37 weeks' gestation) receiving their first surfactant treatment within 48 hours of birth due to suspected or confirmed RDS. Infants are included regardless of administration method.
Data Collection and Follow-up Data are collected from routine clinical documentation, structured procedure forms, clinician surveys, and the Swedish Neonatal Quality Register (SNQ). Variables include perinatal factors, procedural details, respiratory outcomes, and morbidity. Infants are followed until discharge and, where applicable, at 2 and 5.5 years of age using SNQ data.
Outcomes The primary outcome is treatment failure, defined as the need for mechanical ventilation or repeat surfactant administration within 72 hours. Secondary outcomes include changes in oxygenation, need for respiratory support, adverse events, procedural characteristics, and short- and long-term morbidity and mortality. Clinician-reported feasibility and ease of use are also assessed.
Statistical Considerations All eligible infants will be included over a three-year period, with an expected sample size of approximately 300 infants. Analyses will include descriptive statistics, unadjusted comparisons, and multivariable regression models, with propensity score matching to address confounding.
Ethics Ethical approval has been granted by the Swedish Ethical Review Authority. Written informed consent is obtained from caregivers for participation and for permission to collect and analyse observational data. Participation is voluntary and does not affect the infant's clinical care.
Significance This study will provide real-world evidence on the use, safety, and outcomes of different surfactant administration methods, including the implementation of SALSA in extremely preterm infants. The results will inform clinical practice and provide essential data for the design of a future large-scale randomized multicentre trial.
- Conditions
- Respiratory Distress Syndrome (& [Hyaline Membrane Disease]), Respiratory Distress Syndrome (Neonatal), Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS), Respiratory Distress Syndrome of Newborn, Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Premature Infant
- Keywords
- Preterm infants, Premature infants, Surfactant therapy, Supraglottic Airway, Laryngeal Mask Airway, Intubation, LISA, INSURE, Less Invasive Surfactant Therapy, SALSA, Surfactant via Laryngeal or Supraglottic Airway, RDS, Respiratory Distress Syndrome
- Medical subject headings
- Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Hyaline Membrane Disease, Pulmonary Atelectasis, Premature Birth
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| SALSA | Surfactant Administration via Laryngeal or Supraglottic Airway | |
| LISA | Less Invasive Surfactant Administration using a thin catheter applied below the vocal cords guided by laryngoscopy | |
| INSURE | Intubation-Surfactant-Extubation. Followed by positive pressure ventilation or brief period (<1 hour) of mechanical ventilation | |
| Group/Cohort Description: Intubation-Surfactant-Extubation. Followed by positive pressure ventilatio | Continued on mechanical ventilation >1 hour |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Mechanical ventilation or repeat surfactant within 72 hours after first surfactant treatment delivered by LISA, SALSA or INSURE method
Categorical variable (Yes/No). Decision to initiate mechanical ventilation via intubation will be made at the discretion of the treating physician, guided by the local NICU criteria for mechanical ventilation. Data is extracted from medical records.
Measured: Within 72 hours after first surfactant treatment
Secondary outcomes (92)
Bradycardia <100 bpm (any duration)
Categorical variable (Yes/No). Measured by pulse oximetry and noted by team performing procedure.
Measured: During the procedure, an average of 5-10 minutes
Oesophageal/upper airway injury
Categorical (Yes/No). Observations of infant during and post-procedure. Details provided if present.
Measured: During and within an hour from procedure.
Bradycardia <60 bpm (any duration)
Categorical variable (Yes/No). Measured by pulse oximetry and noted by team performing procedure.
Measured: During the procedure, an average of 5-10 minutes
Desaturation to SpO₂ <80% lasting ≥30 seconds (single episode)
Categorical variable (Yes/No). Measured by pulse oximetry and noted by team performing procedure.
Measured: During the procedure, an average of 5-10 minutes
Duration of bradycardia <100 and <60 bpm
Continous variable. Measured by pulse oximetry.
Measured: During the procedure, an average of 5-10 minutes
Duration of desaturation <80%, <60% and <40%
Continuous variable (seconds). Measured by pulse oximetry.
Measured: During the procedure, an average of 5-10 minutes
Surfactant-like content in gastric aspirate
Continous variable, ml.
Measured: Directly after first surfactant administration
Proportion of administered surfactant recovered in gastric aspirate
Continuous variable (%). Fraction (calculated from residual aspirated surfactant and total dose (mL). Observed by clinical team during procedure and noted in CRF.
Measured: Directly after first surfactant administration
Surfactant reflux
Categorical variable (Yes/No). Clinical reflux of surfactant during procedure.
Measured: Directly after first surfactant administration
Δ-FiO₂: Hourly change in FiO₂ from pre-procedure to 12 hours post-procedure
Continuous variable.
Measured: Within 15 minutes before the procedure to 12 hours after first surfactant administration
Δ-SpO2/FiO2-ratio: Change in SpO₂/FiO₂ ratio from pre-procedure to 4 hours post-procedure
Continuous variable.
Measured: Within 15 minutes before the procedure to 4 hours after first surfactant administration
Early failure: Mechanical ventilation within 1 hour of first surfactant administration
Categorical variable (Yes/no).
Measured: Within 1 hour after first surfactant administration
Mechanical ventilation within 72 hours of first surfactant administration
Categorical variable (Yes/No). Decision to initiate mechanical ventilation via intubation will be made at the discretion of the treating physician, guided by the local NICU criteria for mechanical ventilation. Data is extracted from medical records.
Measured: Within 72 hours after first surfactant administration
Repeat surfactant within 72 hours of first surfactant administration
Categorical variable (Yes/No). Decision to repeat surfactant will be made at the discretion of the treating physician, guided by the local NICU guideline. Data is extracted from medical records. When
Measured: Within 72 hours after first surfactant administration
Documented reason for mechanical ventilation
Categorical (Nominal).
Measured: Within 72 hours after first surfactant administration
Documented reason for repeat surfactant
Categorical (nominal).
Measured: Within 72 hours after first surfactant administration
FiO2 requirement at time of intubation
Numerical variable.
Measured: Within 72 hours after first surfactant administration
Mechanical ventilation at any time during admission and duration
Categorical variable (Yes/No). Decision to initiate mechanical ventilation via intubation will be made at the discretion of the treating physician, guided by the local NICU criteria for mechanical ventilation.
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Total cumulative days of CPAP/NIPPV
Numerical variable (days). Data is collected from medical record.
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Total cumulative days of mechanical ventilation (any mode)
Numerical variable (days).
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Total cumulative days of nasal high flow cannula
Numerical variable (days). Data is collected from medical record.
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Total cumulative days of any respiratory support (MV, CPAP/NIPPV, HNFC, or oxygen cannula)
Numerical variable (days). Data is collected from medical record.
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
FiO2 requirement before repeat surfactant
Numerical variable.
Measured: Within 72 hours after first surfactant administration
Time to repeat surfactant
Numerical variable.
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Time to mechanical ventilation
Numerical variable.
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Total cumulative days of mechanical ventilation, conventional
Numerical variable.
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Total cumulative days of supplemental O2
Numerical variable.
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Systemic (oral or intravenous) steroid treatment due to lung disease
Age, date and duration.
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Death
Categorical (Yes/No)
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Time to death
Numerical variable.
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Cause of death
Categorical (Nominal).
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Intraventricular heamorrhage (IVH)
Categorical (Yes/No)
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Highest grade of IVH, any side
Categorical (ordinal)
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Post-haemorrhagic ventricular dilatation (PHVD)
Categorical (Yes/No)
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Cystic periventricular leukomalacia (cPVL)
Categorical (Yes/No)
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD)
Categorical (Yes/No)
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Severe BPD
Categorical (Yes/No).
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Pneumothorax
Categorical (Yes/No)
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Thoracic drain
Categorical (Yes/No)
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Early Onset Sepsis, culture verified
Categorical (Yes/No)
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Early Onset Sepsis, clinical diagnosis
Categorical (Yes/No).
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Late Onset Sepsis, culture verified
Categorical (Yes/No).
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Late Onset Sepsis, clinical diagnosis
Categorical (Yes/No).
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC)
Categorical (Yes/No)
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
NEC with perforation
Categorical (Yes/No)
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
NEC with surgical treatment
Categorical (Yes/No)
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Spontaneous intestinal perforation
Categorical (Yes/No)
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Persistent ductus arteriosus (PDA), medical treatment
Categorical (Yes/No)
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
PDA requiring, surgical treatment
Categorical (Yes/No)
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Examined for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP)
Categorical (Yes/No)
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Maximim ROP any side, grade
Categorical (ordinal).
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
ROP ≥ grade 3
Categorical (Yes/No)
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
ROP treatment
Categorical (Yes/No)
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Major neonatal morbidity
Categorical (Yes/No). BPD, IVH ≥3, cPVL, ROP ≥ 3, or NEC with perforation.
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Weight at discharge
Numerical variable. Grams.
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Δ-weight at discharge
Numerical variable. Grams.
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Supplemental oxygen at discharge from hospital
Categorical variable (Yes/No).
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Duration of admission (in-patient care)
Numerical variable. Days.
Measured: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Asthma or obstructive respiratory symptoms during the past 12 months
Categorical (nominal).
Measured: Follow-up at 2 years of age
Treatment for above obstructive symptoms during the past 12 months
Categorical (nominal).
Measured: Follow-up at 2 years of age
Speech and language development
Categorical (ordinal)
Measured: Follow-up at 2 years of age
Visual impairment
Categorical (Yes/No)
Measured: Follow-up at 2 years of age
Visual impairment, left; right
Categorical (ordinal).
Measured: Follow-up at 2 years of age
Hearing impairment
Categorical (Yes/no)
Measured: Follow-up at 2 years of age
Hearing impairment, left; right
Categorical (ordinal)
Measured: Follow-up at 2 years of age
Bayley score (all scores for all categories)
Numerical variable.
Measured: Follow-up at 2 years of age
Assessed as normal development at follow-up
Categorical (Yes/No).
Measured: Follow-up at 2 years of age
Assessed as not normal in following area
Catetorical (nominal). Motor deficiency; Cognition, communication; Visual; Hearing
Measured: Follow-up at 2 years of age
Seizure disorder
Categorical (ordinal)
Measured: Follow-up at 2 years of age
Hydrocephalus
Categorical (categorical)
Measured: Follow-up at 2 years of age
Cerebral paresis
Categorical (Yes/No).
Measured: Follow-up at 2 years of age
Gross motor function scale
Categorical (ordinal).
Measured: Follow-up at 2 years of age
Any new diagnoses after discharge
ICD- 10-codes.
Measured: Follow-up at 2 years of age
Asthma or obstructive respiratory symptoms during the past 12 months
Categorical (nominal).
Measured: Follow-up at 5,5 years of age
Treatment for above during the past 12 months
Categorical (ordinal)
Measured: Follow-up at 5,5 years of age
Visual impairment
Categorical (Yes/No).
Measured: Follow-up at 5,5 years of age
Visual impairment, left
Categorical (ordinal).
Measured: Follow-up at 5,5 years of age
Visual impairment, right
Categorical (ordinal).
Measured: Follow-up at 5,5 years of age
Hearing impairment
Categorical (Yes/No)
Measured: Follow-up at 5,5 years of age
Hearing impairment, left
Categorical (ordinal)
Measured: Follow-up at 5,5 years of age
Hearing impairment, right
Categorical (ordinal)
Measured: Follow-up at 5,5 years of age
Speech and language development
Categorical (ordinal)
Measured: Follow-up at 5,5 years of age
Seizure disorder
Categorical (ordinal)
Measured: Follow-up at 5,5 years of age
Hydrocephalus
Categorical (ordinal)
Measured: Follow-up at 5,5 years of age
Cerebral paresis
Categorical (Yes/No).
Measured: Follow-up at 5,5 years of age
Gross motor function scale
Categorical (ordinal).
Measured: Follow-up at 5,5 years of age
Manual abilities classification system
Numerical variable.
Measured: Follow-up at 5,5 years of age
WIPPSI, (all scores for all categories)
Numerical variable.
Measured: Follow-up at 5,5 years of age
Strengths and difficulties questionnaire (SDQ) scores
Numerical variable.
Measured: Follow-up at 5,5 years of age
Any new diagnoses after discharge
ICD-10 codes
Measured: Follow-up at 5,5 years of age
Assessed as normal development at follow-up
Categorical (Yes/No)
Measured: Follow-up at 5,5 years of age
Assessed as not normal in following area
Categorical (nominal)
Measured: Follow-up at 5,5 years of age
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted24 Apr 2026
- Study start25 May 2026
- Primary completion25 May 2029 (estimated)
- Study completion25 Oct 2029 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Publications (3)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for Respiratory Distress Syndrome (& [Hyaline Membrane Disease])Studies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by Vastra Gotaland RegionThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Observational
- Observational model
- Cohort
- Time perspective
- Prospective
- Enrolment
- 300 participants (estimated)
- Target duration
- 6 Years
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Vastra Gotaland Region
- Sponsor type
- Other government
- Collaborators
- Göteborg University
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
- Investigators
- Anders Elfvin, Professor, Principal investigator, Department of Neonatology, Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Region Västra Götaland, Sweden
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07550218
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- DNR 2026-00189-01
- Status last verified
- May 2026
- First submitted
- 17 Apr 2026
- Last updated
- 20 Aug 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- Undecided: Individual participant data may be made available upon reasonable request to the principal investigator. Data will be shared in a de-identified form to the greatest extent possible, following review and approval to ensure compliance with informed consent provisions, ethics committee approval, and applicable legal and data protection requirements.
Publications
Abdel-Latif ME, Davis PG, Wheeler KI, De Paoli AG, Dargaville PA. Surfactant therapy via thin catheter in preterm infants with or at risk of respiratory distress syndrome. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2021 May 10;5(5):CD011672. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD011672.pub2.
PubMed 33970483Abdel-Latif ME, Walker E, Osborn DA. Laryngeal mask airway surfactant administration for prevention of morbidity and mortality in preterm infants with or at risk of respiratory distress syndrome. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2024 Jan 25;1(1):CD008309. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD008309.pub3.
PubMed 38270182Sweet DG, Carnielli VP, Greisen G, Hallman M, Klebermass-Schrehof K, Lavizzari A, Ozek E, Te Pas A, Roehr CC, Saugstad OD, Simeoni U, Vento M, Visser GHA, Speer CP. European Consensus Guidelines on the Management of Respiratory Distress Syndrome: 2025. Neonatology. 2026 Mar 9:1-26. doi: 10.1159/000551062. Online ahead of print.
PubMed 41802129
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 20 Aug 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- A Prospective Observational Study of Surfactant AdministrationMethods for Preterm Infants With Respiratory Distress SyndromeWith Long-term Follow-up in the Swedish Neonatal Quality Register
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07550218
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- DNR 2026-00189-01
- Conditions
- Respiratory Distress Syndrome (& [Hyaline Membrane Disease]), Respiratory Distress Syndrome (Neonatal), Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS), Respiratory Distress Syndrome of Newborn, Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Premature Infant
- Keywords
- Preterm infants, Premature infants, Surfactant therapy, Supraglottic Airway, Laryngeal Mask Airway, Intubation, LISA, INSURE
- Study type
- Observational
- Recruitment status
- Recruiting
- Enrolment
- 300 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Vastra Gotaland RegionOther government
- Collaborators
- Göteborg University
- Study start
- 25 May 2026 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 25 May 2029 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 25 Oct 2029 (estimated)
- First posted
- 24 Apr 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
The goal of this observational study is to evaluate different methods of surfactant administration in preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Preterm infants often have immature lungs and a deficiency of surfactant, a substance that helps keep the lungs open and supports oxygen exchange.Surfactant can be delivered to the lungs using different techniques, including INSURE (brief intubation), LISA (via a thin catheter), SALSA (via a laryngeal mask airway), and traditional administration via endotracheal intubation followed by mechanical ventilation. The main question this study aims to answer is:Which method of surfactant administration is associated with better clinical outcomes in preterm infants with RDS?The study will prospectively collect clinical data on infants receiving surfactant as part of standard care, with long-term follow-up using data from the Swedish Neonatal Quality Register. The results are intended to be used to inform the design of a future randomized multicenter study.
Detailed description
Background Complications of preterm birth are the leading cause of child mortality worldwide, with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) as a major contributor. RDS is primarily caused by surfactant deficiency due to immature lungs. Early surfactant therapy, in combination with antenatal corticosteroids and non-invasive respiratory support such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), is central to treatment. However, mechanical ventilation is associated with an increased risk of lung injury and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), prompting the development of less invasive surfactant administration techniques.
Surfactant Administration Methods Three main methods are currently used in spontaneously breathing preterm infants. The INSURE method involves transient intubation for surfactant delivery followed by extubation. Less Invasive Surfactant Administration (LISA) uses a thin catheter inserted below the vocal cords under laryngoscopy, allowing continued spontaneous breathing. LISA is recommended as first-line treatment in European guidelines due to improved outcomes compared to INSURE. However, both methods require laryngoscopy and are technically demanding, with potential adverse events.
Surfactant Administration via Laryngeal or Supraglottic Airways (SALSA) is a newer, less invasive technique that delivers surfactant via a supraglottic airway without laryngoscopy or passage through the vocal cords. Preliminary studies suggest comparable effectiveness to INSURE and CPAP, with potential safety advantages. Historically, SALSA has been limited to larger infants due to lack of appropriately sized devices, but newly available CE-marked devices now enable its use in extremely preterm infants.
Rationale Despite widespread use of INSURE, LISA, and SALSA, there are no direct comparisons between LISA and SALSA, and real-world data on their implementation, safety, and outcomes are limited. In Sweden, these methods are used variably across neonatal units, and their relative use and outcomes have not been systematically evaluated. The availability of smaller supraglottic airway devices now allows evaluation of SALSA in the most vulnerable population, including extremely preterm infants.
Aim The primary aim is to prospectively evaluate and compare the feasibility, safety, clinical performance, and procedural characteristics of surfactant administration methods (SALSA, LISA, INSURE) in spontaneously breathing preterm infants in a real-world clinical setting.
Secondary aims include comparison with infants receiving surfactant via intubation followed by mechanical ventilation, evaluation of short- and long-term clinical outcomes, and generation of data to inform the design of a future randomized multicentre trial.
Study Design This is a prospective, multicentre, observational study conducted in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) in Region Västra Götaland (VGR), Sweden. No interventions are introduced, and all treatment decisions are made according to local clinical guidelines.
Study Population Eligible participants are preterm infants (37 weeks' gestation) receiving their first surfactant treatment within 48 hours of birth due to suspected or confirmed RDS. Infants are included regardless of administration method.
Data Collection and Follow-up Data are collected from routine clinical documentation, structured procedure forms, clinician surveys, and the Swedish Neonatal Quality Register (SNQ). Variables include perinatal factors, procedural details, respiratory outcomes, and morbidity. Infants are followed until discharge and, where applicable, at 2 and 5.5 years of age using SNQ data.
Outcomes The primary outcome is treatment failure, defined as the need for mechanical ventilation or repeat surfactant administration within 72 hours. Secondary outcomes include changes in oxygenation, need for respiratory support, adverse events, procedural characteristics, and short- and long-term morbidity and mortality. Clinician-reported feasibility and ease of use are also assessed.
Statistical Considerations All eligible infants will be included over a three-year period, with an expected sample size of approximately 300 infants. Analyses will include descriptive statistics, unadjusted comparisons, and multivariable regression models, with propensity score matching to address confounding.
Ethics Ethical approval has been granted by the Swedish Ethical Review Authority. Written informed consent is obtained from caregivers for participation and for permission to collect and analyse observational data. Participation is voluntary and does not affect the infant's clinical care.
Significance This study will provide real-world evidence on the use, safety, and outcomes of different surfactant administration methods, including the implementation of SALSA in extremely preterm infants. The results will inform clinical practice and provide essential data for the design of a future large-scale randomized multicentre trial.
Study design
- Observational model
- Cohort
- Time perspective
- Prospective
- Target follow-up
- 6 Years
- Number of arms
- 4
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| SALSA | – | –Surfactant Administration via Laryngeal or Supraglottic Airway |
| LISA | – | –Less Invasive Surfactant Administration using a thin catheter applied below the vocal cords guided by laryngoscopy |
| INSURE | – | –Intubation-Surfactant-Extubation. Followed by positive pressure ventilation or brief period (<1 hour) of mechanical ventilation |
| Group/Cohort Description: Intubation-Surfactant-Extubation. Followed by positive pressure ventilatio | – | –Continued on mechanical ventilation >1 hour |
Who may qualify
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Child, Adult, Older adult
- Study population
- Newborn infants admitted to neonatal units in Västra Götaland Region, Sweden.
Key inclusion criteria (4 listed)
- Patient has received surfactant by any administration method
- Gestational age below 37 weeks'
- First surfactant treatment given before 48 hours of age
- Confirmed or suspected diagnosis of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS)
Key exclusion criteria (1 listed)
- Not fulfilling above inclusion criteria
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Primary outcome
Mechanical ventilation or repeat surfactant within 72 hours after first surfactant treatment delivered by LISA, SALSA or INSURE method
Time frame: Within 72 hours after first surfactant treatment
Categorical variable (Yes/No). Decision to initiate mechanical ventilation via intubation will be made at the discretion of the treating physician, guided by the local NICU criteria for mechanical ventilation. Data is extracted from medical records.
92 secondary outcomes
Bradycardia <100 bpm (any duration)
Time frame: During the procedure, an average of 5-10 minutes
Oesophageal/upper airway injury
Time frame: During and within an hour from procedure.
Bradycardia <60 bpm (any duration)
Time frame: During the procedure, an average of 5-10 minutes
Desaturation to SpO₂ <80% lasting ≥30 seconds (single episode)
Time frame: During the procedure, an average of 5-10 minutes
Duration of bradycardia <100 and <60 bpm
Time frame: During the procedure, an average of 5-10 minutes
Duration of desaturation <80%, <60% and <40%
Time frame: During the procedure, an average of 5-10 minutes
Surfactant-like content in gastric aspirate
Time frame: Directly after first surfactant administration
Proportion of administered surfactant recovered in gastric aspirate
Time frame: Directly after first surfactant administration
Surfactant reflux
Time frame: Directly after first surfactant administration
Δ-FiO₂: Hourly change in FiO₂ from pre-procedure to 12 hours post-procedure
Time frame: Within 15 minutes before the procedure to 12 hours after first surfactant administration
Δ-SpO2/FiO2-ratio: Change in SpO₂/FiO₂ ratio from pre-procedure to 4 hours post-procedure
Time frame: Within 15 minutes before the procedure to 4 hours after first surfactant administration
Early failure: Mechanical ventilation within 1 hour of first surfactant administration
Time frame: Within 1 hour after first surfactant administration
Mechanical ventilation within 72 hours of first surfactant administration
Time frame: Within 72 hours after first surfactant administration
Repeat surfactant within 72 hours of first surfactant administration
Time frame: Within 72 hours after first surfactant administration
Documented reason for mechanical ventilation
Time frame: Within 72 hours after first surfactant administration
Documented reason for repeat surfactant
Time frame: Within 72 hours after first surfactant administration
FiO2 requirement at time of intubation
Time frame: Within 72 hours after first surfactant administration
Mechanical ventilation at any time during admission and duration
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Total cumulative days of CPAP/NIPPV
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Total cumulative days of mechanical ventilation (any mode)
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Total cumulative days of nasal high flow cannula
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Total cumulative days of any respiratory support (MV, CPAP/NIPPV, HNFC, or oxygen cannula)
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
FiO2 requirement before repeat surfactant
Time frame: Within 72 hours after first surfactant administration
Time to repeat surfactant
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Time to mechanical ventilation
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Total cumulative days of mechanical ventilation, conventional
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Total cumulative days of supplemental O2
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Systemic (oral or intravenous) steroid treatment due to lung disease
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Death
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Time to death
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Cause of death
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Intraventricular heamorrhage (IVH)
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Highest grade of IVH, any side
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Post-haemorrhagic ventricular dilatation (PHVD)
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Cystic periventricular leukomalacia (cPVL)
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD)
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Severe BPD
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Pneumothorax
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Thoracic drain
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Early Onset Sepsis, culture verified
Time frame: Before discharge (about 2-20 weeks)
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 20 Aug 2026.
- Background: PubMed 33970483Abdel-Latif ME, Davis PG, Wheeler KI, De Paoli AG, Dargaville PA. Surfactant therapy via thin catheter in preterm infants with or at risk of respiratory distress syndrome. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2021 May 10;5(5):CD011672. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD011672.pub2.
- Background: PubMed 38270182Abdel-Latif ME, Walker E, Osborn DA. Laryngeal mask airway surfactant administration for prevention of morbidity and mortality in preterm infants with or at risk of respiratory distress syndrome. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2024 Jan 25;1(1):CD008309. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD008309.pub3.
- Background: PubMed 41802129Sweet DG, Carnielli VP, Greisen G, Hallman M, Klebermass-Schrehof K, Lavizzari A, Ozek E, Te Pas A, Roehr CC, Saugstad OD, Simeoni U, Vento M, Visser GHA, Speer CP. European Consensus Guidelines on the Management of Respiratory Distress Syndrome: 2025. Neonatology. 2026 Mar 9:1-26. doi: 10.1159/000551062. Online ahead of print.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: Undecided. Individual participant data may be made available upon reasonable request to the principal investigator. Data will be shared in a de-identified form to the greatest extent possible, following review and approval to ensure compliance with informed consent provisions, ethics committee approval, and applicable legal and data protection requirements.
Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part.
Anders Elfvin, Professor principal investigator
Department of Neonatology, Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Region Västra Götaland, Sweden
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
An observational study of Respiratory Distress Syndrome (& [Hyaline Membrane Disease]) and Respiratory Distress Syndrome (Neonatal), run by Vastra Gotaland Region at 1 site in Sweden.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 4 inclusion and 1 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: looking for participants now, as of the sponsor's last update on 20 Aug 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Sweden. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
Contact Anders Elfvin, Professor (+46313438073, anders.elfvin@vgregion.se), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Mechanical ventilation or repeat surfactant within 72 hours after first surfactant treatment delivered by LISA, SALSA or INSURE method (time frame: Within 72 hours after first surfactant treatment). It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT07550218, which also lists 3 linked publications.
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 20 Aug 2026.