Thanks Gail for the very good explanation. However there are now studies
available that seem to show that deep suction of the trachea makes no
difference in outcome with regard to the syndrome of "meconium aspiration".
The hypothesis being that it is the asphyxia that causes the problem, not
the meconium aspiration. Nevertheless, when I was resuscitating newborns, I
would do it. But always with regret.
Jack Newman, MD, FRCPC