What is a potential direct impact of positive pressure ventilation on perfusion in infants?

Positive pressure ventilation can significantly affect perfusion in infants through its impact on preload, which is the amount of blood returning to the heart before it contracts. When positive pressure is applied during ventilation, it can increase intrathoracic pressure, which in turn can impede venous return to the right atrium. This reduction in venous return decreases the preload, which can diminish the stroke volume and consequently lower cardiac output.

In infants, whose cardiovascular systems are particularly sensitive, any decrease in preload can lead to compromised perfusion and inadequate blood flow to vital organs. This makes it essential for healthcare providers to carefully manage ventilation techniques to ensure that they do not inadvertently affect the hemodynamics of such vulnerable patients.

Recognizing the delicate balance between delivering effective ventilation and maintaining adequate perfusion highlights the importance of monitoring an infant's response to positive pressure ventilation closely.