Objective data may be obtained in addition by the use of polysomnography. In this manner one may quantify the amount of oxygen desaturation which occurs during sleep in addition to evaluation numbers of apneic episodes. During endoscopy one is able to quantify the degree of airway utilizing endotracheal tubes in order to determine the degree of narrowing compared to a known standard. This is helpful in planning operative intervention as well as on a prognostic basis. B y following a standard protocol for the assessment of neonates with stridor one can develop a workable differential diagnosis which allows appropriate treatment to be initiated.
Organization remains the key when dealing with respiratory compromise in the newborn.