Neonatal Disease

Hyaline Membrane Disease

Researchers at SFBR developed the premature baboon as a natural model of respiratory distress syndrome that occurs with hyaline membrane disease in the premature infant. The major complication of premature birth, this severe respiratory disease results in the lungs collapsing in preemies. Often fatal, it can leave those victims who survive with respiratory problems for life.

High-Frequency Ventilator

The premature baboon model was used by Foundation scientists to aid in the development and verification of the high-frequency ventilator to rescue premature neonates with pulmonary distress.

Use of Surfactant

Research with premature baboons at SFBR helped verify the efficacy of surfactant treatment to prevent or ameliorate pulmonary distress in the premature infant.

Pulmonary Distress

Research at SFBR provided experimental data showing that high-dose steroid treatment of the pregnant female before delivery helps to prevent pulmonary distress in the prematurely delivered neonate.