Synchronized Intermittent Mandatory Ventilation (SIMV) Versus Nasal Intermittent Positive Pressure Ventilation (NIPPV) In Preterm Infants With Respiratory Distress

Title of Study: A Prospective, Randomized, Multicenter Trial Comparing Synchronized Intermittent Mandatory Ventilation (SIMV) vs. Early Extubation to Nasal Intermittent Positive Pressure Ventilation (NIPPV) after Surfactant Treatment in Preterm Infants with Respiratory Distress Treatment Period (Planned): 7 days Objectives: To compare the impact of early extubation \[within 120 minutes of birth to Nasal Intermittent Positive Pressure Ventilation (NIPPV group) vs. Synchronized Intermittent Mandatory Ventilation (SIMV group) on the incidence of mechanical ventilation via endotracheal tube at 7 days of age in 26 to 29 + 6 weeks gestation premature infants with respiratory distress treated with intratracheal Curosurf (poractant alpha) within 60 minutes of birth. Secondary objectives include evaluation of overall clinical outcomes at 7 days, 28 days, and 36 weeks postmenstrual age (PMA) and/or at discharge, complications, safety, and adverse events. Number of Subjects: 110