What is the expected impact of surfactant on respiratory compliance in newborns?

Surfactant plays a critical role in the respiratory system of newborns. By reducing surface tension in the alveoli, surfactant helps to maintain their stability and prevents collapse during exhalation. This function significantly enhances lung compliance, which is a measure of the lungs' ability to stretch and expand.

When surfactant is present in adequate amounts, it allows for easier expansion of the lungs during inhalation, thereby facilitating more effective and efficient breathing. In newborns, particularly those who may be premature and have lower levels of surfactant, the introduction of surfactant therapy can significantly improve respiratory function and overall compliance.

Understanding the importance of surfactant highlights how it directly contributes to effective ventilation, improved oxygenation, and decreased work of breathing, which is crucial for the health of newborns, especially those at risk of conditions such as Respiratory Distress Syndrome.