Can a steroid shot into the windpipe protect preemies' lungs?

This trial tests whether giving the steroid budesonide directly into the windpipe, together with surfactant, can prevent bronchopulmonary dysplasia — a chronic lung disease — in very preterm infants (born before 32 weeks or weighing under 1500 grams) who have respiratory distress syndrome. About 86 newborns will receive either budesonide plus surfactant or surfactant alone. Researchers will track lung health until 36 weeks after the mother's last menstrual period to see if the steroid lowers the chance of lung damage.