Comparison of Primary Extubation Failure Between NIPPV and NI-NAVA

Extubation failure is a significant problem in preterm neonates and prolonged intubation is a well-documented risk factor for development of chronic lung disease. Out of the respiratory modalities available to extubate a preterm neonate; high flow nasal canula, nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) and noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) are the most commonly used. A recent Cochrane meta-analysis concluded that NIPPV has lower extubation failure as compared to nCPAP (30% vs. 40%) NAVA (neurally adjusted ventilatory assist), a relatively new mode of mechanical ventilation in which the diaphragmatic electrical activity initiates a ventilator breath and adjustment of a preset gain (NAVA level) determines the peak inspiratory pressure. It has been reported to improve patient - ventilator synchrony and minimize mean airway pressure and ability to wean an infant from a ventilator. However till date there has been no head to head comparison of extubation failure in infants managed on NAVA with conventional ventilator strategies. In this study the investigators aim to compare primary extubation failure rates in infants/participants managed by NIPPV vs. NI-NAVA (non invasive NAVA). Eligible infants/participants will be randomized to be extubated to predefined NIPPV or NI-NAVA ventilator settings and will be assessed for primary extubation failure (defined as reintubation within 5 days after an elective extubation).