What is one of the potential benefits of administering surfactant to premature neonates?

Administering surfactant to premature neonates is an established medical intervention aimed at improving respiratory outcomes. Surfactant is a substance that reduces surface tension in the alveoli, the tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs. Premature infants often have underdeveloped lungs and may suffer from respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), primarily due to a lack of adequate surfactant production.

By providing exogenous surfactant, the therapy directly enhances lung expansion during inspiration, which is critical for effective breathing. This improvement in lung function facilitates better oxygenation and can significantly decrease the work of breathing for these vulnerable infants. Enhanced lung expansion not only aids in immediate respiratory stability but can also improve overall outcomes, including reducing the incidence and severity of RDS.

While benefits such as improved feeding tolerance, reduction in bleeding risks, and increased energy levels might arise indirectly as a result of improved respiratory function, the most direct and immediate benefit of surfactant therapy is indeed the enhancement of lung expansion in premature neonates.