Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia Research
Improving Patient Outcomes Through Research
Physician-scientists and researchers at the Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD) Center at Cincinnati Children’s are passionate about providing children with the best care possible. As part of that commitment, they engage in research to better understand BPD and find more effective therapies. Interactions with patients and families often lead to new research projects and a deeper understanding of BPD. These research discoveries lead to more effective treatments and better outcomes. This synergy between patient care and research is a hallmark of the BPD Center.
Understanding the Underlying Causes of BPD
One of the greatest strengths of the BPD Center’s research program is our close partnership with the Center for Pulmonary Imaging Research at Cincinnati Children’s. Through this partnership, we conduct translational research. This involves translating scientific findings and new imaging methods into clinical research trials that improve patient care.Researchers at the Center for Pulmonary Imaging Research use world-class magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology, largely developed by our team. It provides high-resolution, detailed images of the lungs, heart and airway. This technology helps us better understand the underlying causes of BPD and the impact of premature birth on vital organs. The information helps our clinical team explore new strategies to personalize treatment for children with BPD. By combining this innovative imaging with basic-science research using blood and urine, investigators are beginning to pinpoint the origins of BPD itself.
Improving Care Through Clinical Research
In addition to our translational imaging research, the BPD Center participates in clinical research. Almost all families whose children receive care at the center choose to enroll their children in one or more of our studies. Children who take part in such studies may have access to novel therapies long before such therapies are widely available.Currently, we are enrolling children in a large, multi-center study to determine the safest and most efficient method for weaning oxygen while babies are at home. This study allows our team to monitor oxygen therapy through a secure, wireless network. It guides families on weaning patients safely while avoiding low oxygen levels that may result in a hospital stay.
Other clinical research studies at the BPD Center are evaluating the impact of various treatments during the neonatal period. These treatments include antibiotics, steroids and albuterol. By combining these studies with cutting-edge MRI, results can be obtained faster and more accurately.
Our physician-researchers also collaborate on clinical research and quality improvement projects with other pediatric centers around the country. Many of these collaborations happen through three national organizations, the Vermont Oxford Network, the Children’s Hospitals Neonatal Consortium and the BPD Collaborative.
The BPD Center’s research program is funded mainly by grants. These grants come from the National Institutes of Health, Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and the Francis Family Foundation.
Talk to your child’s doctor to learn more about research at the BPD Center.
