Canadian Neonatal Network Database Research Articles

Costs of Neonatal Intensive Care for Canadian Infants with Preterm Birth

To develop and validate an itemized costing algorithm for in-patient neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) costs for infants born prematurely that can be used for quality improvement and health economic analyses. We sourced patient resource use data from the Canadian Neonatal Network database, with records from infants admitted to 30 tertiary NICUs in Canada. We sourced unit cost inputs from Ontario hospitals, schedules of benefits, and administrative sources. Costing estimates were generated by matching patient resource use data to the appropriate unit costs. All cost estimates were in 2017 Canadian dollars and assigned from the perspective of a provincial public payer. Results were validated using previous estimates of inpatient NICU costs and hospital case-cost estimates. We assigned costs to 27 742 infants born prematurely admitted from 2015 to 2017. Mean (SD) gestational age and birth weight of the cohort were 31.8 (3.5) weeks and 1843 (739) g, respectively. The median (IQR) cost of hospitalization before NICU discharge was estimated as $20 184 ($9739-51 314) for all infants; $11 810 ($6410-19 800) for infants born at gestational age of 33-36weeks; $30 572 ($16 597-$51 857) at gestational age of 29-32weeks; and $100 440 ($56 858-$159 3867) at gestational age of <29weeks. Cost estimates correlated with length of stay (r=0.97) and gestational age (r=-0.65). The estimates were consistent with provincial resource estimates and previous estimates from Canada. NICU costs for infants with preterm birth increase as gestation decreases and length of stay increases. Our cost estimates are easily accessible, transparent, and congruent with previous cost estimates.

24 Association of location of intubation procedure and number of tracheal intubation attempts with death or severe neurological injury among very preterm infants

Abstract Background The physiological stress induced by tracheal intubation (TI) is associated with increased risk of neurological injury among very preterm infants. The location of TI procedure and number of attempts required may contribute to adverse outcomes. Objectives We aimed to assess the association of location where TI is performed and the number of TI attempts with death and/or severe neurological injury (SNI) among very preterm infants born &amp;lt;33 weeks and intubated in the first 7 days of life. Design/Methods Retrospective cohort study of 442 infants born 23-32 weeks gestation, admitted to a Level 3 NICU 2015-2018 within the first 7 days of life. We excluded infants who were moribund and the ones with a major congenital anomaly. Data was collected from the Canadian Neonatal Network database and chart review. Exposures were location of TI (delivery room [DR] vs. NICU) and number of TI attempts (1 vs. &amp;gt;1) among infants intubated in the first 7 days of life. Primary outcome was death and/or SNI (intraventricular hemorrhage grade 3-4 and/or periventricular leukomalacia). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association between exposures and outcomes and adjust for confounders. Results Rate of intubation was 46% (202/442). Rate of death and/or SNI was 2.5% (6/240) among infants never intubated, 12% (13/105) among NICU TI, 32% (31/97) among DR TI, 20% (17/85) among infants with 1 TI attempt and 23% (27/117) among infants with &amp;gt;1 TI attempt. Rate of premedication use for NICU TI was 97% (102/105). Overall, median number of intubation attempts was 1 [IQR 1-2]. Compared to no TI, TI in the NICU (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 3.39, 95% CI 1.20-10.53) and TI in the DR (AOR 9.28, 95% CI 3.33-29.43) were associated with higher odds of death and/or SNI. DR TI was associated with higher odds of death and/or SNI compared to NICU TI (AOR 2.73, 95% CI 1.23-6.35). Compared to no TI, 1 TI attempt (AOR 5.25, 95% CI 1.93-15.93) and &amp;gt;1 TI attempt (AOR 5.17, 95% CI 1.93-15.69) were associated with higher odds of death and/or SNI. The number of intubation attempts (1 vs. &amp;gt;1) was not associated with death and/or SNI (AOR 0.99, 95% CI 0.47-2.09). Conclusion Intubated infants have higher odds of death and/or SNI. Among intubated infants, DR TI is associated with higher odds of death and/or SNI vs. TI in the NICU with premedication. Optimizing non-invasive ventilation in the DR may help reduce brain injury in preterm infants.

28 Association of serum sodium concentration, fluid balance and weight loss with bronchopulmonary dysplasia in very preterm infants

Abstract Background Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) affects 20% of very preterm infants born &amp;lt;33 weeks gestational age (GA). In this subgroup of neonates, postnatal fluid adaptation may be inefficient due to kidney immaturity, resulting in increased pulmonary interstitial fluid content, lung damage and impaired air-gas exchange. Early postnatal fluid status might contribute to the risk of developing BPD and requires further investigation. Objectives To investigate the association of three indicators of early postnatal fluid status (median serum sodium concentration, cumulative fluid balance and maximum percentage weight loss) measured over the first 10 days after delivery with death and/or BPD in infants born &amp;lt;33 weeks. Design/Methods This retrospective cohort study included infants born 23-32 weeks GA, admitted to the Montreal Children’s Hospital’s NICU from 2015-2018. Neonates moribund on admission, with any major congenital malformation and/or admitted to the NICU &amp;gt;1 day after birth were excluded. Data was collected from the Canadian Neonatal Network database and individual chart review. BPD was defined as oxygen therapy or respiratory support at 36 weeks’ corrected GA. Unadjusted comparisons were made using the Wilcoxon test. Associations between exposures (median serum sodium concentration, cumulative fluid balance and maximum percentage weight loss in the first 10 days after delivery) and outcomes (death and/or BPD) were assessed using multivariable logistic regression analyses adjusting for sex, steroid use, GA, small-for-gestational-age status, Apgar at 5 min&amp;lt;7, surfactant use and mode of delivery. Results Among 439 eligible infants, 125 died and/or developed BPD (29%). Median serum sodium concentration was 139 mmol/L (IQR 136-141) among BPD-free survivors and 136 mmol/L (IQR 134-139) among infants with death and/or BPD (p&amp;lt;0.001). Cumulative fluid balance was 4.09 dL/kg (IQR 2.98-4.78) among BPD-free survivors and 4.88 dL/kg (IQR 3.96-5.95) among infants with death and/or BPD (p&amp;lt;0.001). Maximum percentage weight loss was 8.5% (IQR 5.4-11.6) among BPD-free survivors and 9.2% (IQR 4.9-12.9) among infants with death and/or BPD (p=0.41). Adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence interval) are presented in Table 1. Conclusion Among very preterm infants, higher cumulative fluid balance in the first 10 days after delivery is associated with higher odds of death and/or BPD. Thus, targeting lower cumulative fluid balance may improve BPD-free survival.

Association between Transport Risk Index of Physiologic Stability in Extremely Premature Infants and Mortality or Neurodevelopmental Impairment at 18 to 24 Months

To examine the association between mortality or neurodevelopmental impairment at 18-24months of corrected age and the Transport Risk Index of Physiologic Stability (TRIPS) score on admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in extremely premature infants. Retrospective cohort study of extremely premature infants (inborn and outborn) born at 22-28weeks of gestational age and admitted to NICUs in the Canadian Neonatal Network between April 2009 and September 2011. TRIPS scores and clinical data were collected from the Canadian Neonatal Network database. Follow-up data at 18-24months of corrected age were retrieved from the Canadian Neonatal Follow-Up Network database. Neurodevelopment was assessed using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Edition III. The primary outcome was death or significant neurodevelopmental impairment at 18-24months of corrected age. The secondary outcomes were individual components of the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Edition III assessment. A total of 1686 eligible infants were included. A TRIPS score of ≥20 on admission to the NICU was significantly associated with mortality (aOR 2.71 [95% CI, 2.02-3.62]) and mortality or significant neurodevelopmental impairment (aOR 1.91 [95% CI, 1.52-2.41]) at 18-24months of corrected age across all gestational age groups of extremely premature infants. The TRIPS score on admission to the NICU can be used as an adjunctive, objective tool for counselling the parents of extremely premature infants early after their admission to the NICU.

Procedural Interventions and Stabilization Times During Interfacility Neonatal Transport

ObjectiveTransport teams perform multiple procedural interventions during the stabilization of critically ill neonates. The setting of this study was a national cohort of interfacility neonatal transports from nontertiary centers. MethodsA retrospective cohort study of neonatal transports having interventional procedures using the Canadian Neonatal Transport Network database during 2014 to 2016. Demographics and procedures associated with stabilization times ≤ 120 versus > 120 minutes were analyzed. Predictors of stabilization time were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression analysis. ResultsAmong 3,350 neonatal transports analyzed, the 3 most frequently performed procedures were peripheral intravenous insertion, arterial blood gas sampling, and endotracheal tube insertion, with success rates of 85.2%, 89.1%, and 95.3%, respectively. The frequency of procedures varied across gestational age subgroups, and success rates were lower for umbilical arterial catheter insertions. After adjustment for confounders, more invasive procedures and a higher number of interventions were associated with longer stabilization times. ConclusionThe type and frequency of procedures performed had a significant impact on stabilization time. Any procedures that are nonessential for stabilization at the nontertiary center, such as umbilical arterial catheter insertion, could be minimized to promote timely admission to tertiary centers. The demonstrated variations in procedural success among teams provide useful information for benchmarking and promote the sharing of training practices.

Refining evidence-based retinopathy of prematurity screening guidelines: The SCREENROP study.

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a potentially blinding condition affecting premature infants for which less than 10% of babies undergoing screening require treatment. This study assessed and validated predictors of developing clinically significant ROP (type 2 or worse) and ROP requiring treatment. Nationwide retrospective cohort study. This study included infants born between January 2014 and June 2016, admitted to level 3 neonatal intensive care units across Canada who underwent ROP screening. Data were derived from the Canadian Neonatal Network database. Predefined ≥ 1% risk for clinically significant retinopathy or prematurity and ROP requiring treatment was set as threshold for screening. Thirty-two potential predictors were analyzed, to identify and validate the most important ones for predicting clinically significant ROP. The predictors were determined on a derivation cohort and tested on a validation cohort. Multivariable logistic regression modeling was used for analysis. Using a sample of 4,888 babies and analyzing 32 potential predictors, capturing babies with ≥1% risk of developing clinically significant ROP equated to screening babies with birth weight (BW) <1,300 g or gestational age (GA) <30 weeks while capturing babies with ≥1% risk of requiring ROP treatment equated to screening babies with BW <1,200 g or GA <29 weeks. The Canadian ROP screening criteria can be modified to screen babies with BW <1,200 g or GA <30 weeks. Using these criteria, babies requiring treatment would be identified while reducing the number of babies screened unnecessarily.

Narcotics and sedatives use in the mechanical ventilation in preterm infants: Predictors and outcome

Mechanical ventilation (MV) causes discomfort but whether it causes pain remains controversial. Around the world neonatal intensive care units (NICU) often utilize narcotics and/or sedatives during MV of vulnerable infants yet the association with adverse neonatal outcomes has not been adequately addressed. Test for associations between the use of narcotics/sedatives during MV and mortality/morbidity in preterm infants in a large infant cohort in Canada. Preterm infants born <35 weeks gestational age (GA) requiring MV for >24 hrs were identified retrospectively from the Canadian Neonatal Network database, 2010-12. Infants were categorized according to whether they received narcotics/sedatives for greater than 24 hours concurrently with MV. Infants were excluded if moribund on admission, had major congenital anomalies, diagnoses where narcotic administration is routine and suspected seizures. Multivariable logistic and linear regression analysis tested for association of narcotics/sedatives use during MV with mortality/morbidity (nosocomial infections, BPD, ROP, IVH) and length of MV. After exclusions the cohort included 2672 infants; 467(17%) exposed only to narcotics 101(4%) only to sedatives and 299(11%) to both. All models were adjusted for GA, gender, small for GA, SNAP-II score >20, multiple births, delivery mode, outborn, PDA status, MV type, use of high flow, muscle relaxant use, indwelling lines, caffeine and surfactant therapy. The composite mortality/morbidity, and MV days were significantly higher for MV infants exposed to narcotics, sedatives or both compared to infants not exposed. Mounting evidence of the adverse short and long-term impacts of narcotics/sedatives during MV supports the need for further work in alternative therapies.

Outcomes of singleton small for gestational age preterm infants exposed to maternal hypertension: a retrospective cohort study.

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are a major cause of small for gestational age (SGA). Preterm SGA infants have higher rates of adverse outcomes than appropriate for gestational age infants. However, the outcomes are not well established in the setting of HDP. Retrospective population-based study using the Canadian Neonatal Network database from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2016 of SGA infants <33 weeks gestation. Using multivariable models, we determined the adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for mortality, bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), severe intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), severe retinopathy of prematurity, necrotizing enterocolitis, late-onset sepsis, and patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in infants of HDP mothers and compared them to infants of non-HDP mothers. Of the 2081 eligible SGA infants, 1317 (63%) were born to HDP mothers and had lower odds of mortality (AOR 0.57, 95% CI 0.39-0.83) and BPD (AOR 0.69, 95% CI 0.53-0.90). Sub-group analysis demonstrated decreased mortality in 26-28 and 29-32 weeks gestation groups, decreased BPD in 29-32 weeks gestation group, and decreased PDA in <26 weeks gestation group. Preterm SGA infants of HDP mothers have lower odds of mortality and BPD compared to infants of non-HDP mothers.

Prospective audit and feedback on antibiotic use in neonatal intensive care: a retrospective cohort study

BackgroundAntimicrobial stewardship programs potentially lead to appropriate antibiotic use, yet the optimal approach for neonates is uncertain. Such a program was implemented in a tertiary care neonatal intensive care unit in October 2012. We evaluated the impact of this program on antimicrobial use and its association with clinical outcomes.MethodsIn a retrospective cohort study, we examined 1580 neonates who received antimicrobials in the 13-months before and 13-months during program implementation. Prospective audit and feedback was given 5 days a week on each patient who was receiving antibiotic. Pharmacy and microbiology data were linked to clinical data from the local Canadian Neonatal Network database. The primary outcome was days of antibiotic therapy per 1000 patient-days; secondary outcomes included mortality, necrotizing enterocolitis, and antibiotic duration for culture-positive and culture-negative late-onset sepsis. The breadth of antibiotic exposure was compared using the Antibiotic Spectrum Index.ResultsOverall antibiotic use decreased to 339 days of therapy per 1000 patient-days from 395 (14%, P < 0.001), without an increase in mortality. There was no difference in duration of therapy in culture-negative or culture-positive sepsis, rates of necrotizing enterocolitis, or breadth of antibiotic exposure. Fewer antibiotic starts occurred during program implementation (63% versus 59%, P < 0.001). The use of narrow-spectrum agents decreased (P < 0.001) whereas the use of cefotaxime increased (P = 0.016) during program implementation.ConclusionsDaily prospective audit and feedback was not associated with a change in antibiotic duration or clinical outcomes, however there were fewer babies started on antibiotics, suggesting that additional interventions are required to inform and sustain changes in antibiotic prescribing practices.

Long-term outcomes of saline boluses in very preterm infants.

Normal saline bolus is commonly used in clinical practice for treating hypotension in very preterm infants during resuscitation at an early age despite the paucity of high quality evidence supporting this practice. To determine the effects of early (<7 days after birth) saline boluses given to very preterm infant (VPI) from 23 to 31 weeks GA. This is a population-based cohort analysis of the use of normal saline boluses given to VPI. The outcomes were extracted from the Perinatal Follow-Up Program Database which included all VPI from Halifax County admitted to the NICU at the IWK Health Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada between January 2006 to December 2010. We excluded infants with major congenital anomalies and those not offered resuscitation in the delivery room. Our primary outcome was the composite of death or disability by 18-36 months while secondary outcomes were neonatal death, BPD, CP, IVH, PVL, ROP, BSITD III (Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development®, Third Edition) Cognitive, Motor and Language score. Death or disability in those who received saline bolus occurred in 15 (53.6%) compared with 9 (32.1%) in non saline group. Significantly higher rates of CP (p = 0.04), lower scores on the BSITDIII for motor (p = 0.04) and language scales (p = 0.03) were noted for infants who received saline boluses. Cognitive scores approached significance (p = 0.05) with lower scores in the saline bolus group. Significant differences were found between the two groups in terms of long term neurodevelopmental outcome and one of the short-term outcome (i.e. BPD). Given the limitations of this retrospective study and the small sample size, a larger cohort from Canadian Neonatal Network database is warranted to evaluate the effects of using normal saline boluses during early life on neurodevelopmental.

MS # 20171726 / Haslam et al - Comparing apples to apples in developmental follow up studies

Adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes after preterm birth are important to parents and clinicians for several reasons. Families want to be prepared to take care of their children after discharge and to understand if their child may have any long-term functional limitations. In the most vulnerable patients, neonatal resuscitation decisions may be influenced by the perception of a high likelihood of disabilities. Clinicians may use rates of morbidity and long-term outcomes as markers of quality neonatal care and trends in long term outcomes help us gauge if we are improving care over time. These goals are only possible with a valid and consistently used definition of neurodevelopmental impairments; however, despite decades of research, there is not a consensus on this topic. This problem is highlighted by Haslam et al in this volume of The Journal. The authors evaluated outcome data from 2187 preterm children using the Canadian Neonatal Follow-Up Network database. They identified several definitions of severe neurodevelopmental impairment used in the literature and applied these varying definitions to the same population of children evaluated at 18-21 months of corrected age. Unfortunately, the study found that rates of severe neurodevelopmental impairment varied significantly, up to 4-fold, depending on the definition used. The results of this study argue for the need for standardized definitions, but it is not clear what the definition should be. Strict definitions describing deviation from standard test scores may not be representative of a child's special needs and some types of functional impairments may affect quality of life more than others. When neonatal follow up first became important, there were very few long-term survivors, but now there are many surviving preterm individuals who can guide us. Perhaps it is time to publish new studies that let preterm individuals and their families tell us what is most important. Article page 75 ▶ Severe Neurodevelopmental Impairment in Neonates Born Preterm: Impact of Varying Definitions in a Canadian CohortThe Journal of PediatricsVol. 197PreviewTo assess the impact of variations in the definition of severe neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI) on the incidence of severe NDI and the association with risk factors using the Canadian Neonatal Follow-Up Network cohort. Full-Text PDF

Assessing effect of catheter type and position on central line-associated bloodstream infections in the NICU

Abstract BACKGROUND Central venous catheter usage in NICU remains associated with serious complications such as bloodstream infection. Also, low position (underdiaphragmatic) of umbilical venous catheter (UVC) is tolerated despite not recommended. To our knowledge, no previous study assessed the effect of such a position on central line associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) rates in the NICU. OBJECTIVES The primary objectives of this study were to assess global CLABSI rates for each central catheter subtype and position, and specific rates according to birth weight and gestational age. Dwell time before infection and microorganisms involved were also evaluated. DESIGN/METHODS For this retrospective cohort study, all neonates hospitalized in Level 3 NICU, from April 1st 2011 to March 31st 2016, in whom a central line was inserted, were included. Data about catheter insertion, demographic characteristics and bloodstream infections was extracted from local CVC database, local CLABSI database, patient medical record, post catheter insertion X-rays and Canadian Neonatal Network database. Difference in CLABSI rates and type of microorganisms involved were analyzed using Cox regression and Chi2. Difference in dwell time was analyzed using a one-way ANOVA and evolution in time of the proportion of each type of catheter presented as observational data. RESULTS A total of 1577 neonates were included and 2440 CVC were studied. Median gestational age (GA) was 30 2/7 [26 6/, 37] weeks and birth weight (BW) was 1310 [680, 2796] g. Of the 2440 neonates, 1308 were boys (53.6%). There was a total of 197 CLABSI. Total number of catheter days over the study period was 23 479 days. CLABSI rate for high UVC was 11.49 per 1000 catheter days compared to 6.92 for PICC line (p &lt; 0.001) and 5.14 for femoral CVC (p = 0.008). CLABSI rate for low UVC was 17.31 per 1000 catheter days (p = 0.002 when compared to high UVC). Median dwell time before infection is 7 days for high UVC, 5 days for low UVC and 11 days for PICC (p &lt; 0.001). Microorganism involved in CLABSI was a majority of Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus in 57.1–71.9% without a statistically significant difference between groups (p= 0.33). CONCLUSION Evolution of CVC usage over years remained stable. CLABSI rates are significantly higher with all UVC compared with PICC line and femoral CVC, particularly for newborn &lt; 1500g and &lt; 32 weeks of GA. Low UVC are associated to higher CLABSI rates than high UVC. Health professionals should be cautious with indwelling UVC, especially when in low position. They might conisder replacing low lines by a PICC as soon as possible.

Trends in narcotics and sedative use during mechanical ventilation of preterm infants in Canadian neonatal intensive care units

ObjectiveMechanical ventilation (MV) in preterm infants (PTI) causes discomfort. Whether it causes pain is controversial. Meta analysis reviews of published work on PTI during MV have shown no clinically significant impact of opioids on pain scales, and hence not recommended for routine use in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Similarly regular use of sedative midazolam is also not recommended. Therefore we hypothesized a downward trend in narcotics and sedatives used in MV of PTI in NICUs. This study aimed to assess trends of sedatives and narcotics use during MV of PTI in Canadian NICUs during 2004-2009. MethodsPTI born at gestational age (GA) of 24 hours were identified retrospectively from the Canadian Neonatal Network database for 2004-2009. PTI were excluded if moribund on admission, had major congenital anomalies, surgery (except laser eye surgery), necrotizing enterocolitis, chest tube or history of maternal narcotic abuse. PTI were classified according to whether they received any narcotics (morphine, fentanyl, methadone, sufentanyl, meperidine, alfentynl and codiene) or sedatives (chloral hydrate, midazolam, lorazepam, phenobarbital, pentobarbital, ketamine and propofol) for > 24 consecutive hours during MV. Trends of narcotics and sedatives were assessed using the Cochrane-Armitage Trend test separately for PTI born at <29 and 29-34 weeks of GA. ResultsAmong 5 638 study subjects, 2 169 (38.5%) received narcotics and 897 (15.9%) received sedatives. The most common narcotics were morphine (62.2%) and fentanyl (63.8%) and sedatives were phenobarbital (44.9%) and chloral hydrate (44.2%). A significant decreasing trend (P <0.01) in the use of any sedatives during MV was observed in PTI <29 and 29-34 weeks of GA. However, the use of any narcotics during MV increased significantly (P=0.03) among PTI <29 weeks of GA, and no change in trend was detected for PTI born at 29-34 weeks of GA. ConclusionsThe use of sedatives during MV in PTI born at <35 weeks of GA was positively affected, however the narcotics use during MV remained constant for PTI born at 29-34 weeks, and increased in extremely low GA group (less than 29 weeks) suggesting evidence based practice change was not observed during the study period.

MAGnesium sulphate for fetal neuroprotection to prevent Cerebral Palsy (MAG-CP)\u2014implementation of a national guideline in Canada

BackgroundEvidence supports magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) for women at risk of imminent birth at < 32–34 weeks to reduce the likelihood of cerebral palsy in the child. MAGnesium sulphate for fetal neuroprotection to prevent Cerebral Palsy (MAG-CP) was a multifaceted knowledge translation (KT) strategy for this practice.MethodsThe KT strategy included national clinical practice guidelines, a national online e-learning module and, at MAG-CP sites, educational rounds, focus group discussions and surveys of barriers and facilitators. Participating sites contributed data on pregnancies with threatened very preterm birth. In an interrupted time-series study design, MgSO4 use for fetal neuroprotection (NP) was tracked prior to (Aug 2005–May 2011) and during (Jun 2011–Sept 2015) the KT intervention. Effectiveness of the strategy was measured by optimal MgSO4 use (i.e. administration when and only when indicated) over time, evaluated by a segmented generalised estimating equations logistic regression (p < 0.05 significant). Secondary outcomes included maternal effects and, using the Canadian Neonatal Network (CNN) database, national trends in MgSO4 use for fetal NP and associated neonatal resuscitation. With an anticipated recruitment of 3752 mothers over 4 years at Canadian Perinatal Network sites, we anticipated > 95% power to detect an increase in optimal MgSO4 use for fetal NP from < 5 to 80% (2-sided, alpha 0.05) and at least 80% power to detect any increases observed in maternal side effects from RCTs.ResultsSeven thousand eight hundred eighty-eight women with imminent preterm birth were eligible for MgSO4 for fetal NP: 4745 pre-KT (18 centres) and 3143 during KT (11 centres). The KT intervention was associated with an 84% increase in the odds of optimal use (OR 1.00 to 1.84, p < 0.001), a reduction in the odds of underuse (OR 1.00 to 0.47, p < 0.001) and an increase in suboptimal use (too early or at ≥ 32 weeks; OR 1.18 to 2.18, p < 0.001) of MgSO4 for fetal NP. Maternal hypotension was uncommon (7/1512, 0.5%). Nationally, intensive neonatal resuscitation decreased (p = 0.024) despite rising MgSO4 use for fetal NP (p < 0.001).ConclusionMultifaceted KT was associated with significant increases in use of MgSO4 for fetal NP, with neither important maternal nor neonatal risks.

Association between Umbilical Catheters and Neonatal Outcomes in Extremely Preterm Infants.

The objective of this study was to examine the association between umbilical catheters and a composite outcome of mortality or major neonatal morbidity in extremely preterm infants. Data were abstracted from the Canadian Neonatal Network database for infants born at <29 weeks' gestational age and admitted to 29 neonatal intensive care units between January 2010 and December 2012. Four groups were identified: those with no umbilical catheters, umbilical venous catheters (UVCs), umbilical artery catheters (UACs), and those with both UVCs and UACs. The outcomes were compared among the groups using univariate and multivariable analyses. Of 4,623 eligible infants, 820 (17.7%) had no catheters, 1,032 (22.3%) a UVC only, 120 (2.6%) a UAC only, and 2,651 (57.3%) had both catheters. After adjustment for acuity and other potential confounders, umbilical catheters were associated with higher odds of mortality or any major morbidity (UVC vs. no catheter: adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.47; 95% CI: 1.18-1.85; UAC vs. no catheter: aOR: 1.67; 95% CI: 1.05-2.63; and both UVC + UAC vs. no catheter: aOR: 2.17; 95% CI: 1.79-2.70). Most of the infants born at <29 weeks' gestation had UVC and/or UAC placement. The presence of either catheter was associated with mortality or major morbidity, and the association was stronger when both catheters were present.

Internal Audit of the Canadian Neonatal Network Data Collection System.

Background Neonatal databases worldwide have become a prominent tool for benchmarking, evaluation of outcomes, and quality improvement initiatives. We aimed to assess the precision of the Canadian Neonatal Network (CNN) database by conducting an internal audit of data extraction. Methods An audit was conducted in all 31 neonatal units participating in the CNN. Ninety-five data items selected for reabstraction were classified into categories (critical, important, less important) based on predefined agreement rates. Five records were randomly selected at each site for reabstraction, including one short (3–7 days), two medium (8–12 days), and two long (18–22 days) stay cases. Agreement rates for each data item were calculated for individual units and across the network. Results A total of 155 cases and 14,725 data fields were reabstracted. The overall agreement rates for critical, important, and less important data items were 98.0, 96.1, and 96.3%, respectively. Individual site variation for discrepancies ranged between 0.2 and 12.8% for all collected data items. Conclusion Neonatal data extraction within the CNN database structure exhibited high precision; thereby, revealing the reliability of our data abstraction for neonatal demographic, processes of care, and outcomes information. An independent external audit of data extraction would be beneficial.

Antenatal Exposure to Magnesium Sulfate and Spontaneous Intestinal Perforation and Necrotizing Enterocolitis in Extremely Preterm Neonates.

Background There have been recent concerns regarding the higher rates of spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP) in preterm infants that have been exposed to intrapartum magnesium sulfate (MgSO4). Objective To assess the association between intrapartum MgSO4 exposure and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and/or SIP in extremely preterm neonates. Design A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from the Canadian Neonatal Network database. Infants born at &lt; 28 weeks' gestation admitted to neonatal units in Canada between 2011 and 2014 were divided into two groups: those exposed antenatally to MgSO4 and those unexposed. Stratified analyses for infants born between 22 and 25 weeks' gestation and those born between 26 and 27 weeks' gestation were conducted. The primary outcome was intestinal injury, identified as either NEC or SIP. Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using multivariable logistic regression. Results We compared 2,300 unexposed infants with 2,055 exposed infants. There was no difference in the odds of NEC (9.88% exposed vs. 9.59% unexposed; aOR: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.75–1.14) or SIP (3.4% exposed vs. 3.39% unexposed; aOR: 1.05; 95% CI: 0.75–1.48) between the two groups. Conclusion Antenatal exposure to MgSO4 was not associated with NEC or SIP in extremely preterm infants.

Neonatal outcomes of preterm twins according to mode of birth and presentation

Purpose: To compare neonatal outcomes of twins delivered <33 weeks’ gestation in tertiary centers in Canada according to the mode of birth and presentation.Materials and methods: This retrospective cohort from the Canadian Neonatal Network database studied preterm twins born from 24 + 0 to 32 + 6 weeks’ gestation between 2005 and 2012. Twins were grouped by the mode of birth: both vaginal, combined vaginal/cesarean section (CS), and both CS. Additionally, twins were grouped by the mode of presentation: both vertex, vertex/breech, breech/vertex, and both breech. The primary outcome was a composite of mortality or severe neonatal morbidity (severe neurological injury [intraventricular hemorrhage grade 3/4 or periventricular leukomalacia], bronchopulmonary dysplasia, retinopathy of prematurity, and necrotizing enterocolitis).Results: Of the 6636 twins, 1934 (29%) were delivered vaginally, 418 (6%) by combined vaginal birth/CS, and 4284 (65%) were born by CS. The composite did not differ between the groups. However, severe neurological injury was decreased (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 0.77; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.61–0.98) and respiratory distress syndrome (AOR, 1.34; 95%CI, 1.15–1.56) was increased when both the twins were delivered by CS.Conclusions: Preterm twin infants born via CS experienced less severe neurological injury when compared to those delivered vaginally, but had an increase in respiratory distress syndrome.

Neonatal outcomes in very preterm singleton infants conceived using assisted reproductive technologies.

To compare neonatal mortality, severe morbidities and hospital length of stay in very preterm singleton infants conceived using assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) or spontaneously (SP). Singleton infants born at 23 to 32 weeks gestation during 2010-2012 were retrospectively identified from the Canadian Neonatal Network database. A composite outcome indicating a mortality or severe morbidity (grade ≥ 3 intraventricular hemorrhage, periventricular leukomalacia, stage ≥ 3 retinopathy of prematurity, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, or stage ≥ 2 necrotizing enterocolitis) was compared between ART and SP infants using multivariable logistic regression. Length of stay was examined in multivariable time-to-event analyses adjusting for competing risk of mortality. Eligible subjects included 346 (4.4%) ART and 7,578 (95.6%) SP infants. ART mothers were older, with fewer single parents, higher rates of nulliparity, diabetes, hypertension, antenatal corticosteroids, and prenatal care, but less smoking and substance use than SP mothers. No significant differences were detected in the composite outcome (odds ratio: 0.79; 95% confidence interval: 0.54-1.17) or length of stay (hazard ratio: 0.84; 95% confidence interval: 0.63-1.12) between ART and SP infants after adjustment for potential confounders and risk factors. Among singleton infants born very preterm, mode of conception is not associated with overall mortality/morbidity or length of stay.

95: Neonatal Outcomes in Infants &lt;29 Weeks Gestation in Relation to Maternal Hypertension and Smoking Status

Maternal hypertension and cigarette smoking during pregnancy are associated with adverse neonatal outcomes. Paradoxically, smoking during pregnancy is associated with a reduced incidence of gestational hypertension. However, mothers who smoke during pregnancy and develop hypertension have worse pregnancy outcomes as compared to mothers who only have hypertension or non-smoking normotensive mothers. There is little data on neonatal outcomes of infants born to mothers with hypertension who also smoke. To study the outcomes of infants of mothers with hypertension who smoke. Using the Canadian Neonatal Network Database, we analyzed the outcomes of infants <29 weeks GA admitted to Canadian NICUs from 2003–2012. Infants were divided into four groups. Group 0 comprised infants of hypertensive mothers who smoked, group 1 infants of non-smoking hypertensive mothers, group 2 infants of normotensive mothers who smoked and group 3 infants of normotensive non-smoking mothers. Composite outcome of neonatal mortality or any of the major morbidities {grade 3/4 intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), periventricular leukomalacia (PVL), retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) > stage 2, late onset sepsis (LOS) or bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) was assessed using a multivariable model. Of the 12,307 eligible infants, 172 were in group 0, 1689 in group 1, 1535 in group 2 and 8911 in group 3. Adjusted ORs with 95% CIs with reference to group 3 (normotensive, non-smokers) are reported in Table 1. Infants of hypertensive mothers, whether smokers or non-smokers, were associated with higher rates of BPD. Smoking cessation campaigns during pregnancy are needed for both maternal and neonatal benefits.