Tags: Disease.
Apnea of prematurity is defined as cessation of breathing by a premature infant that lasts for more than 15 seconds and/or is accompanied by hypoxia or bradycardia. Apnea is traditionally classified as either obstructive central or mixed. Obstructive apnea may occur when the infant’s neck is hyperflexed or conversely hyperextended. It may also occur due to low pharyngeal muscle tone or to inflammation of the soft tissues which can block the flow of air though the pharynx and vocal cords.