MAS often arises as a result of fetal hypoxemia and subsequent
gasping. There is no indication for oropharyngeal or
nasopharyngeal suctioning with delivery of the head in these
babies w2, 101x. A recent meta-analysis of four studies of
endotracheal intubation at birth to prevent morbidity and
mortality in vigorous meconium-stained infants born at term
shows no benefit from this technique w109x. However, there
is limited evidence of benefit in meconium-stained neonates
born in poor condition and there may still be an indication
for routine endotracheal intubation in these cases.