Neonatal respiratory distress and lung function at follow-up.

Eight infants (gestational age 27-32 weeks) ventilated in the neonatal period had significantly higher airway resistances at 6 months, but not 1 year, than eight infants matched for gestational age but without any neonatal respiratory problems. We conclude that neonatal ventilation or respiratory distress causes a temporary impairment of lung function.