Question

In severe meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) cases where conventional treatment fails, what highly technical method may be necessary?

a) Phototherapy
b) Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)
c) Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission
d) Surfactant administration

Answer 1

In severe meconium aspiration syndrome cases that don't respond to conventional treatments, Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) may be necessary to support the infant's breathing.

Step-by-step explanation:

In severe cases of meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) where conventional treatment such as ventilators, surfactant administration, and antibiotics fail, a highly technical method that may be necessary is Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO). ECMO is a life-support machine that takes over the work of the lungs (and sometimes the heart), allowing the baby's lungs to rest and heal while oxygen is added directly into the blood. It is often considered when all other treatments have not been successful and the infant's life is at risk due to severe respiratory failure.