Inhaled nitric oxide and neuroprotection in preterm infants.

Although inhaled nitric oxide-mediated decreases in chronic lung disease and severe intraventricular hemorrhage/periventricular leukomalacia undoubtedly contribute to improved neurodevelopmental outcomes, inhaled nitric oxide has an independent neuroprotective effect. Although these data are encouraging, additional studies are required before recommending the routine use of inhaled nitric oxide for neuroprotection in preterm infants.