Hi,

I am wondering how many people are using the SiPAP generators for VLBW infants. We had problems with head molding and changed to the Viasys circuit that we use with our Aladdin CPAP. We are still having head molding in the very small infants though.

Head moulding is a constant problem with very small babies. The solution is meticulous attention to positioning by the nursing staff. We do not use SiPAP generators, but have a large number of babies on Bubble CPAP, and find that it helps if the hat is removed every four to six hours when the baby's cares are done, and the head gently massaged for a minute or two before the hat is replaced. We also find that it is important that the hat is changed for a larger size when necessary, as a too-small hat will cause severe moulding. Even with these measures there are still some babies who display significant head moulding. Constant vigilance on the part of the nursing staff is critical.