About Rady Children’s Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia Clinic
The Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD) Clinic provides specialized, coordinated care for premature infants with chronic lung disease who continue to require supplemental oxygen after NICU discharge. Our goal is to help each child breathe more easily, grow stronger and thrive at home. Our Commitment We are dedicated to:
- Supporting families as partners in care
- Helping infants transition safely from NICU to home and managing their respiratory needs, including weaning from supplemental oxygen at home
- Promoting growth, nutrition and developmental progress
- Reducing hospital readmissions through proactive care and education
What Is Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD)?
Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD)—also called Chronic Lung Disease (CLD) of Prematurity—is a long-term lung condition affecting babies born prematurely before their lungs have fully developed. Premature babies often need oxygen, CPAP or ventilator support in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). While lifesaving, this support can irritate or injure developing lungs, resulting in chronic lung changes. Babies with BPD may continue to need supplemental oxygen or, in some cases, mechanical ventilation after NICU discharge. Their lungs are more sensitive and at higher risk for respiratory infections such as RSV, influenza and other viruses.
Our BPD Clinic
Comprehensive, Family-Centered Care The BPD Clinic provides monthly multidisciplinary visits tailored to the unique needs of infants with chronic lung disease. Our team collaborates to support your child’s respiratory health, nutrition, growth and transition to home care.
Multidisciplinary Team & Collaborative Programs
Your child’s multidisciplinary care team includes:
- Pediatric Pulmonologist – Oversees respiratory care and oxygen management
- Pediatric Gastroenterologist – Supports feeding, growth and reflux management
- Respiratory Therapist – Assists with oxygen and ventilator use at home
- Nurse Coordinator – Helps organize appointments and follow-up care
- Registered Dietitian – Ensures optimal nutrition for growth and lung health
- Social Worker – Connects families with resources and support systems
Meet Our Team
- Matejka Cernelc-Kohan, MD – Pediatric Pulmonologist
- Julie Ryu, MD – Pediatric Pulmonologist
- Jocelyn Young, MD – Pediatric Gastroenterologist
- Sandra Salzedo, RD – Dietitian
- Sara Spork, RN – Nurse Coordinator
- Denay Gonzales – Social Worker
- Ashley Henderson – Social Worker
Coordinated Care With Other Rady Children’s Programs Your child’s care may involve collaboration with:
- Aerodigestive Clinic
- Pulmonary Hypertension Program
- Occupational & Speech Therapy
- ENT
- Cardiology
- General Surgery
What to Expect at Your BPD Clinic Visit
- Check-In and Measurements: A medical assistant will measure weight and growth.
- Respiratory Assessment: A respiratory therapist will evaluate breathing and oxygen needs. Some babies may be safely monitored on room air for brief observation.
- Physician Evaluations: Families meet with both the pediatric pulmonologist and pediatric gastroenterologist to review respiratory status, nutrition and home-care needs.
- Nutritional Assessment: A registered dietitian reviews growth to support lung development.
- Additional Support: A social worker may provide resources, care coordination and family support.
- Appointment Length: Most visits take one to two hours, depending on your child’s needs.
Clinic Schedule
BPD Clinics are held on the second and third Friday of each month. Visits include a full team review, growth assessment and individualized planning for oxygen, nutrition, medications and developmental care.
Contact Us
Location:
Rady Children’s Hospital–San Diego Medical Office Building, 2nd Floor, Pulmonology
3030 Children’s Way, San Diego CA, 92123
Phone: 858-576-1700 Ext. 224562
Appointments & Referrals Your child will need a referral from a pediatrician or NICU neonatologist to be seen in our clinic. Once we receive the referral, our administrative team will contact you to schedule the appointment.
Research
We are part of the BPD Collaborative.