Ultrasound may help doctors time lifesaving lung treatment for preterm infants

This study tests whether using a lung ultrasound score can help doctors decide when to give surfactant therapy to premature infants with respiratory distress syndrome. Surfactant is a substance that helps babies' lungs stay open, but giving it too late can reduce its benefit. The trial will compare ultrasound-guided treatment decisions with current standard guidelines in 52 preterm infants born between 27 and 36 weeks of gestation. The goal is to see if this approach leads to earlier treatment and better breathing outcomes.