Ultrasound may spot preterm babies needing lung treatment earlier

NCT ID NCT05782569

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looked at whether chest ultrasound can predict which premature babies (born before 34 weeks) will need surfactant—a substance that helps their immature lungs work better. Doctors currently decide based on oxygen levels, which can delay treatment. Researchers performed lung ultrasounds on 86 babies in the first few days of life, but did not use the images for treatment decisions. The goal was to see if ultrasound scores could reliably predict the need for surfactant, potentially allowing earlier and more effective treatment.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to

If successful, this could lead to a simple, non-invasive way to decide which premature babies need surfactant early, potentially improving their breathing and reducing complications.

What could go wrong

This was a small, observational study (86 babies) that only recorded ultrasound images without using them for treatment decisions. The findings need confirmation in larger, interventional trials before changing practice.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Premature Birth respiratory distress syndrome in premature infants

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • South Tees NHS Foundation Trust

    Middlesbrough, United Kingdom