Chest Physical Therapy For Pneumonia In Preterm Neonates

Heneidy, Walaa E.; Kassem, Hala I; AbuShady, Mariam; Abd-Elrazek, Merna A.

doi:10.21608/dusj.2025.362643.1130

Chest Physical Therapy For Pneumonia In Preterm Neonates

Document Type : Review articles

Authors

¹ department of physical therapy for pediatrics and its surgery. faculty of physical therapy

² Dean of Physical therapy of delta University

³ Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine for Girls, Al-Azhar University, Egypt.

⁴ Physical Therapist, El Mansoura International Hospital, Ministry of Health

10.21608/dusj.2025.362643.1130

Abstract

Preterm neonates are particularly vulnerable to respiratory complications, including pneumonia, due to their underdeveloped lungs and immature immune systems. These vulnerabilities significantly contribute to high morbidity and mortality rates in this population. Effective management of neonatal pneumonia is critical for improving survival rates and minimizing long-term respiratory sequelae. Chest physical therapy (CPT) serves as a valuable adjunctive treatment, complementing medical interventions to enhance respiratory function in preterm neonates with pneumonia. To enhance mucus clearance and maximize lung function, conventional CPT procedures such postural drainage, percussion, and vibration have been used extensively. However, these methods may have limitations in addressing the unique needs of preterm infants. In recent years, innovative CPT techniques, including reflex rolling and lung squeezing, have emerged as promising alternatives. These techniques are designed to provide gentler, more targeted interventions, aligning with the physiological requirements of preterm neonates. Ongoing research is crucial to establish the safety, efficacy, and long-term benefits of these advanced approaches in neonatal care.

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