Background Nasal continuous positive airway pressure (NCPAP) is a useful method for
providing respiratory support after extubation. Nasal intermittent positive pressure ventilation
(NIPPV) can augment NCPAP by delivering ventilator breaths via nasal prongs. Objectives
Primary objective To determine the effects of management with NIPPV versus NCPAP on the
need for additional ventilatory support in preterm infants whose endotracheal tube was
removed after a period of intermittent positive pressure ventilation.

Background Apnea of prematurity is almost universal in infants who are born before 34
weeks gestation. Previous randomised trials and systematic reviews have found
methylxanthines to be effective in preventing apnea of prematurity. However, recent
concerns about potential long‐term side effects of methylxanthines on the
neurodevelopment of low birth weight infants have led to an increased interest in alternate
methods of treating apnea of prematurity. Nasal continuous positive airway pressure …