At Dell Children's Medical Center, the Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD) Program stands as a destination for treatment for children who were born prematurely with complex respiratory and health challenges. BPD is diagnosed in babies who continue to require breathing support after reaching what would have been 36 weeks of gestation.
The BPD program is led by Neonatologist Dr. Jianzhong Ji and Pediatric Pulmonologist Dr. Annie Wolfe with great support from the chief of the Division of Neonatology, Dr. John Loyd, along with a collaborative group of highly skilled pediatric specialists which includes a pulmonary hypertension team led by Dr. Corey Chartan, dieticians, pharmacists, cardiologists, speech therapists/physical therapists, social workers and other specialists from across the hospital.
The Austin American-Statesman's Nicole Villalpado recently published a comprehensive article featuring Luca Lobello, a former Dell Children’s NICU patient. Luca was born prematurely with significant respiratory and other health issues and was transferred to Dell Children's NICU to receive care within the BPD program along with support and procedures from other specialists. We encourage you to read this inspiring story about Luca's bravery and his ongoing care journey.
Article: Austin American Statesman; Inside the Austin unit fighting for babies born struggling to breathe
