Parametric analysis of an integrated cardio-respiratory model in preterm newborns during apnea

The analysis of the complex interactions involved in the acute physiological response to apnea-bradycardia events in preterm newborns remains a challenging task. This paper presents a novel integrated model of cardio-respiratory interactions, adapted to preterm newborns. A sensitivity analysis, based Morris’ screening method, was applied to study the effects of physiological parameters on heart rate and desaturation, during the simulation of a 15-seconds apnea-bradycardia episode. The most sensitive parameters are associated with fundamental, integrative physiological mechanisms involving: (i) respiratory mechanics (intermediate airways and lung compliance), (ii) fraction of inspired oxygen, (iii) metabolic rates (oxygen consumption rate), (iv) heart rate regulation and (v) chemoreflex (gain). Results highlight the relevant influence of physiological variables, involved in preterm apnea-bradycardia events.