Frequency Of Intraventricular Hemorrhage Research Articles

Frequency of Intraventricular Haemorrhage (IVH) in Early Preterm Neonates Born at DHQ Teaching Hospital Gujranwala

Objective: The reported frequency of intraventricular hemorrhage in preterm neonates varied greatly. We determined the frequency of IVH in premature neonates in the pediatric unit of DHQ Hospital Gujranwala. Materials & Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 282 very low birth weight neonates (birth weight <1500 gm.) delivered very preterm (gestational age <32 weeks). These neonates were assessed for intraventricular hemorrhage which was diagnosed on cranial ultrasound performed on 3rd day of life. The frequency of IVH was compared across various attributing factors i.e., gestational age at delivery, gender, birth weight, mode of delivery, and maternal antenatal steroids. Results: The mean gestational age at delivery was 27.5±2.3 weeks while the mean birth weight was 1120.5±190.2 grams. 172 (61.0%) neonates were delivered vaginally while C-section was performed in 110 (39.0%) cases. 263 (93.3%) mothers received antenatal steroids. Intraventricular hemorrhage was diagnosed in 64 (22.7%) early preterm neonates. The frequency of IVH increased significantly with increasing prematurity; 24-27 weeks vs. 28-31 weeks (28.9% vs. 17.0%; p-value=0.017), decreasing birth weight; <1 kg vs. ?1kg (31.8% vs. 18.6%; p-value=0.014) and lack of antenatal steroids (52.6% vs. 20.5%; p-value=0.001). Conclusion: The intraventricular hemorrhage was observed in 22.7% of early preterm neonates which advocates routine screening of preterm neonates for IVH so that timely identification and anticipated management may improve the outcome of such neonates. We also identified increasing prematurity, decreasing birth weight, and lack of antenatal steroids as potential attributing factors that can be used for risk stratification and management planning of such cases.

Study on location of cerebral lesion among patients with hemorrhagic cerebrovascular accident

Background: In hemorrhagic cerebrovascular accident, bleeding occurs directly into the brain parenchyma. Intracerebral hemorrhage usually occurs at certain sites in the brain, i.e., thalamus, putamen, cerebellum, and brain stem. The surrounding area of brain may be damaged by pressure produced by the mass effect of the hematoma. Increase in intracranial pressure occurs. Aims and Objectives: The aim and objective of the study are to compare the localization of cerebral lesions with the frequency of intraventricular hemorrhage and to study the prognosis of hemorrhagic cerebrovascular accident (CVA) as per its anatomical location in computed tomography (CT) scan. Materials and Methods: One-year observational cross-sectional study was conducted in 60 patients with CT scan diagnosed hemorrhagic CVA. Results: Regarding the site of the hemorrhagic CVA, the most commonly affected area was basal ganglia (46.7%) followed by thalamus (18.3%); other areas include pons (8.3%), paraventricular (8.3%), cerebellar (6.7%), lobar (5%), internal capsule (3.3%), and intraventricular (3.3%). Conclusion: This study reflects a spectrum of cerebral location of hemorrhagic stroke which may help in the management of hemorrhagic CVA patients.

The clinical effects of two non-invasive ventilation modes on premature infants with respiratory distress syndrome: A randomized controlled trial.

To compare the safety and effectiveness of nasal noninvasive high- frequency oscillatory ventilation (NHFOV) and duo positive airway pressure (DuoPAP) applications in preterm babies with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). This was a randomized controlled trial. Forty-three premature infants with RDS treated in the neonatal intensive care unit of Huaibei Maternal and Child Health Hospital from January 2020 to November 2021 were selected as the research participants. They were randomly divided into the NHFOV group (n = 22) and DuoPAP group (n = 21). General conditions, including the arterial oxygen partial pressure (PaO2), carbon dioxide partial pressure (PaCO2), oxygenation index (OI), the incidence of apnea at 72 hours, duration of noninvasive respiratory support, maternal high-risk factors, total oxygen consumption time, total gastrointestinal feeding time, and the frequency of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and apnea were compared between the NHFOV group and DuoPAP group at 12 and 24 hours after noninvasive respiratory support. There was no noteworthy difference between the 2 groups with respect to PaO2, PaCO2, OI, IVH, and NEC and BPD at different nodes (all P > .05). The endpoints of PaO2, PaCO2 and OI and complications of IVH, NEC, BPD and Apnea, and did not reveal any statistical differences between NHFOV and DuoPAP during the respiratory support in preterm babies with RDS.

EBNEO commentary: Maternal high-dose DHA supplementation and neurodevelopment in infants born before 29 weeks' gestation.

This was a planned follow-up study of the Canadian multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled superiority trial, Maternal Omega-3 Supplementation to Reduce Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia in Very Preterm Infants (MOBYDIck). Enrolment in the primary study occurred from 2015 to 2018. A total of 457 infants were included in the final analysis.1, 2 At 18–22 months' corrected age, neurodevelopmental outcomes as assessed by Bayley-III cognitive, language, and motor composite scores were not statistically significant between the treatment and placebo groups.1 The rates of death before 18–22 months' corrected age, cerebral palsy, hearing impairment and visual impairment were also not statistically significant between the two groups.1 Some aspects may bias study results towards the null. First, approximately half the infants in both groups received intravenous docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). This was on average for 21–23 days, in the form of DHA-rich lipids. Second, there may have been additional enteral DHA supplementation in both groups. At 6 weeks postmenstrual age, infants received a median of 130–133 mL/kg/day of expressed breast milk.1 This suggests that many infants at this age were receiving supplemental nutrition, such as donor breast milk or formula. Formula frequently contains DHA.3 The use of fortifier, which also contains DHA, was not commented on.4 The total fatty acid levels in breast milk at 14 days post-delivery were, on average, similar between the groups. In the treatment group DHA composed on average 0.97% of total fatty acids in breast milk at 14 days post-delivery, and in the placebo group, 0.35%.1 The authors note the hypothesis that sole DHA supplementation may cause an imbalance between the long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs), potentially negating the benefits of high-dose DHA supplementation.1 Indeed, expert consensus statements recommend that preterm infants are supplemented with multiple LCPUFAs, such as DHA and arachidonic acid.4, 5 Due to the lower frequency of severe intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) in the DHA group, a post hoc sensitivity analysis excluding participants with severe IVH was completed. This did not change the primary findings. Subgroup analysis found that for neonates born <27 weeks' gestation, those in the treatment group had a higher language score (mean difference 5.06, 95% CI 0.08–10.03; p = 0.05). This analysis was not adjusted for the imbalance in frequency of IVH.1 Further study limitations are well documented by the authors. This includes a suboptimal sample size limiting study interpretation, as enrolment for the MOBYDIck trial was terminated early due to concern that DHA was associated with bronchopulmonary dysplasia.1 Additionally, the sample size was chosen for the primary outcome of the MOBYDIck trial, and therefore has limited ability to detect differences in the primary outcome of this study. Despite the theoretical benefit of LCPUFA supplementation for preterm infants, several randomised controlled trials and a Cochrane systematic review have found little, if any, clinical neurodevelopmental effect.4, 6-9 This study is important as there is limited data on very preterm and extremely preterm infants. Based on this trial, maternal supplementation with high-dose DHA in breastfed infants born before 29 weeks' gestational age does not improve neurodevelopmental outcomes at 18–22 months' corrected age. URL LINK: https://ebneo.org/ebneo-commentary-maternal-dha-and-nd DV wrote the initial draft with AK providing key input. All authors revised the paper for critical scientific content. Open access publishing facilitated by The University of Adelaide, as part of the Wiley - The University of Adelaide agreement via the Council of Australian University Librarians. AK receives funding from the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) (APP1161379). The contents of this paper are solely the responsibility of the individual authors and do not reflect the views of the NHMRC. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.

Frequency and Treatment Outcomes of Isolated Ventricular Hemorrhage Cases Among Traumatic Intracranial Hemorrhage Patients

Background: Bleeding into the ventricular system of brain is called intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH). It may be associated with brain parenchyma. Cases of isolated ventricular hemorrhages are found less. Ventricular hemorrhage due to trauma is more commonly seen in premature babies and infants than adults. Uncertainty in recovery is a important issue for such cases. Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency and the treatment outcomes of isolated ventricular hemorrhage cases among patients with traumatic intracranial hemorrhage. Methods: This prospective observational study was directed in the neurosurgery department of Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College, Sylhet, Bangladesh from January 2015 to December 2020. In total 890 Admitted diagnosed cases of traumatic intracranial hemorrhage were chosen for this study as study population. Ultrasonography CT scan, MRI of the brain, MRA, MRV, and CSF were performed according to the patient’s status. Those were collected, processed, analyzed, and disseminated by using MS office and SPSS version 23 as per need. Results: According to this study, in total participants, the highest number was with parenchymal hemorrhage which was 34% (n=302). Besides these, cases with extradural hemorrhage were 33% (n=298), cases with subdural hemorrhage were 17% (n=149%), cases with subarachnoid hemorrhage were 14% (n=124) and cases with isolated ventricular hemorrhage (IVH) were 2% (n=17). So, in this study, the frequency of IVH was found only 2% among all types of traumatic intracranial hemorrhage cases. Among a total of 17 IVH patients, most of the cases were infants or baby which was 59%. And 41% of the IVH patients were adults. In analyzing the outcomes among the IVH patients we observed, early recovery was found in 1 child (5.88%) and in 2 adults (11.76%). Besides these, death was occurred in 6 children (35.29%) and in 3 adults (17.65%). Conclusion: Traumatic isolated ventricular hemorrhage (IVH) causes the worst prognosis in most cases. The survival rate with no residual effect is very minimum. In this study in 2 patients’ history of long coma, for more than 12 weeks was found. Besides these, moderate to severe morbidity was found in some cases.

Comparison of azithromycin versus erythromycin on gestation length (prolongation of latency interval) and neonatal outcomes in pregnant women with premature rupture of the membrane: an open-label randomized clinical trial

Background: Premature rupture of membrane (PROM) is an important problem among pregnant women, which leads to maternal and neonatal morbidity.This study was done to compare the efficacy of azithromycin with erythromycin on the pregnancy length and the neonatal adverse effects in mothers with PROM.Materials and Methods: In this open-label randomized clinical trial, 194 pregnant women with PROM who referred to Akbarabadi Hospital were enrolled and randomly assigned to two groups. Group I received oral Azithromycin (1 gr/orally), Abidi Company Iran ) + Ampicillin 2 gram IV )Abidi Company, Iran) every six hours for 48 hours; then, only Amoxicillin 500 mg every eight hours for five days. and group II recived intravenous Erythromycin (Abidi Company, Iran) 400 mg every six hours for seven days + Ampicillin 2 grams IV every six hours for 48 hours, then Amoxicillin 500 mg every six hours for five days Finally the pregnancy length and neonatal adverse effects or neonatal outcomes compared between two groups.Result: There was no significant difference between the groups in mean of pregnancy length (32.5 versus 32.6 weeks, respectively, p=0.757) Also the frequency ofIntraventricular hemorrhage, Necrotizing enterocolitis, Respiratory Distress Syndrome sepsis, icter, oxygen demand, ICU admission, duration of hospitalization in the NICU, and mortality in neonate were same between the groups. The mean of patient satisfaction (by self-report) was 9.8 and 9.5 in group I, II, respectivel (P=0.001).Conclusion: It can be concluded that oral azithromycin and intravenous erythromycin have the same effect on increasing the duration of pregnancy and reducing neonatal complications in women with PROM. But azithromycin was associated with greater satisfaction and its use is recommended.

The Frequency of Intraventricular Hemorrhage and its Risk Factors in Premature Neonates in a Hospital's NICU.

ObjectiveIntra-ventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is the leading cause of mortality and disability in premature neonates. The present study aimed to determine the frequency of IVH and its risk factors in the premature newborns admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)at Fatemieh Hospital in Hamadan, Iran, in 2016.Methods & MaterialsThis retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on178 neonates with a gestational age of ≤ 32 weeks admitted to Fatemieh Hospital affiliated to the Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran, in 2016. The study population was selected using the census method. The newborns were subjected to cranial ultrasound on the seventh day of life, and they were assigned into two case and control groups (namely neonates with IVH and those without IVH, respectively). Intra- ventricular hemorrhage was classified into four grades regarding Papile classification. The patients’ demographic specifications, including 1- and 5-minute Apgar scores, type of delivery, birth weight, use of mechanical ventilation, prenatal corticosteroid, gestational age, and some complications (e.g., Pneumothorax), were collected using a checklist. The data were analyzed using SPSS software version 16.ResultsAccording to the results, the prevalence of IVH in premature infants admitted to NICU was approximately 20%, and 61.2% of the neonates were male. The participants’ mean gestational age was 30.39 weeks. The comparison of delivery type between the case and control groups revealed no significant difference (P=0.197). Furthermore, there was a significant difference between the two groups in terms of their need for mechanical ventilation (P=0.03), Pneumothorax(P=0.001), and 5-minute Apgar scores (P=0.04). Moreover, the incidence of IVH had a significant relationship with the mean gestational age (P=0.001) and birth weight (P=0.04).ConclusionAccording to the findings, the premature newborns admitted to the NICU revealed a relatively high prevalence of IVH. The condition is aggravated in preterm neonates by some factors such as low birth weight, 5-minute Apgar score, gestational age, and the need for mechanical ventilation.

Clinical and radiological characteristics and outcome of wake-up intracerebral hemorrhage

There is little information on the characteristics of patients with wake-up intracerebral hemorrhage (WU-ICH). We aimed to evaluate frequency and relevant differences between WU-ICH and while-awake (WA) ICH patients. This is a retrospective study of a prospective database of consecutive patients with spontaneous ICH, who were classified as WU-ICH, WA-ICH or UO-ICH (unclear onset). We collected demographic, clinical and radiological data, prognostic and therapeutic variables, and outcome [(neurological deterioration, mortality, functional outcome (favorable when modified Rankin scale score 0–2)]. From a total of 466 patients, 98 (25.8%) were classified as UO-ICH according to the type of onset and therefore excluded. We studied 368 patients (mean age 73.9 ± 13.8, 51.4% men), and compared 95 (25.8%) WU-ICH with 273 (74.2%) WA-ICH. Patients from the WU-ICH group were significantly older than WA-ICH (76.9 ± 14.3 vs 72.8 ± 13.6, p = 0.01) but the vascular risk factors were similar. Compared to the WA-ICH group, patients from the WU-ICH group had a lower GCS score or a higher NIHSS score and a higher ICH score, and were less often admitted to a stroke unit or intensive care unit. There were no differences between groups in location, volume, rate of hematoma growth, frequency of intraventricular hemorrhage and outcome. One in five patients with spontaneous ICH are WU-ICH patients. Other than age, there are no relevant differences between WU and WA groups. Although WU-ICH is associated with worse prognostic markers vital and functional outcome is similar to WA-ICH patients.

Intraventricular hemorrhage and periventricular leukomalacia in low birth-weight neonates in three hospitals in Lima, Peru

To describe the frequency and severity of intraventricular hemorrhage and periventricular leukomalacia in low birth-weight neonates in three hospitals in Lima, Peru, 385 newborn babies weighing under 2,000 g at birth were evaluated between May 2012 and July 2014. Brain ultrasounds were obtained at 40 weeks' gestation, 3-5 days of life, and 3-4 weeks of life. Intraventricular hemorrhage occurred in 19.2% of neonates weighing under 1,500 g and was severe (grade III or with periventricular hemorrhagic infarction) in 9.6% of neonates under 1,500 g. Mortality in infants with intraventricular hemorrhage was 47.1%, while periventricular leukomalacia was found in 5.4% of neonates 1,500 g and under; both diagnoses were more frequent in lower-weight babies. The frequency of intraventricular hemorrhage is similar to that reported in other countries; however, severity and mortality are greater.

Abstract TP445: Utility of VAN Assessment for Early Identification of Patients With Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Background: The Vision, Aphasia, Neglect (VAN) assessment has been demonstrated as highly sensitive for detection of large vessel occlusion in acute ischemic stroke patients. As a rapidly performed, highly accurate assessment, many emergency medical services have begun utilizing the VAN as a screening tool to help triage patients to endovascular-capable facilities. We previously demonstrated that VAN can distinguish neurosurgical ICH patients from non-surgical ICH patients. Methods: This retrospective study utilized data on consecutively admitted patients from a single high-volume stroke center. Patients over 18 years old diagnosed with ICH between 2008-2015 were included. A positive or negative VAN score was determined for all patients via abstraction from the NIHSS score. Demographics, clinical characteristics, and short-term outcomes were compared between VAN+ and VAN- patients. Results: Of the 201 patients included, 176 (87.56%) were VAN+. Patients in the VAN+ group were more frequently black (73.9% vs. 51.9%, p=0.003) and had lower median GCS (11 vs. 15, &lt;0.001) scores upon arrival. Patient in the VAN+ group had a higher frequency of baseline intraventricular hemorrhage (50.0% vs. 30.8%, p=0.01) and a higher median ICH volume (19 vs. 1, p&lt;0.001) compared to VAN- patients. Additionally, VAN+ patients had higher median modified Rankin Scale scores on discharge (5 vs. 3, p&lt;0.001) and longer median lengths of stay (8 vs. 5, p=0.01). Discussion: VAN can identify neurosurgical ICH patients who have more severe presentations with larger hemorrhages with higher frequency of intraventricular hemorrhage. VAN positive ICH patients have longer lengths of stay and worse early functional outcomes. Ascertainment of VAN in the pre-hospital setting can facilitate initial destination of ICH patients to advanced stroke centers with access to neurosurgical expertise.

Hypobaric birth room may prevent intraventricular hemorrhage in extremely low birth weights infants

In the early postnatal period, intraventricular hemorrhage may develop in infants with extremely low birth weights due to hemodynamic instability. One of the most significant factors in intraventricular hemorrhage development is fluctuations in the cerebral blood flow due to left-to-right shunting as a result of patent ductus arteriosus, and such cases most frequently develop intraventricular hemorrhage within the first 72 h. The frequency of intraventricular hemorrhage may be reduced through the prevention of fluctuations in the cerebral blood flow in this time frame. Based on our hypothesis, we recommend that extremely low birth weight infants should be delivered and monitored in hypobaric rooms for the first three days after birth, as this may reduce left-to-right shunting as a result of patent ductus arteriosus by preventing the rapid drops seen in pulmonary pressure after birth. A more stable hemodynamic status may be achieved by increasing the cerebral blood flow during an acute term in a hypobaric environment. Gradual transition to the normobaric status at the end of the third day may prevent the long-term negative effects of hypobaric conditions.

The combined exposure to intra-amniotic inflammation and neonatal respiratory distress syndrome increases the risk of intraventricular hemorrhage in preterm neonates.

To evaluate the impact of combined exposure to intra-amniotic inflammation and neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) on the development of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) in preterm neonates. This retrospective cohort study includes 207 consecutive preterm births (24.0-33.0 weeks of gestation). Intra-amniotic inflammation was defined as an amniotic fluid matrix metalloproteinase-8 concentration >23 ng/mL. According to McMenamin's classification, IVH was defined as grade II or higher when detected by neurosonography within the first weeks of life. (1) IVH was diagnosed in 6.8% (14/207) of neonates in the study population; (2) IVH was frequent among newborns exposed to intra-amniotic inflammation when followed by postnatal RDS [33% (6/18)]. The frequency of IVH was 7% (8/115) among neonates exposed to either of these conditions - intra-amniotic inflammation or RDS - and 0% (0/64) among those who were not exposed to these conditions; and (3) Neonates exposed to intra-amniotic inflammation and postnatal RDS had a significantly higher risk of IVH than those with only intra-amniotic inflammation [odds ratio (OR) 4.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1-19.3] and those with RDS alone (OR 5.6, 95% CI 1.0-30.9), after adjusting for gestational age. The combined exposure to intra-amniotic inflammation and postnatal RDS markedly increased the risk of IVH in preterm neonates.

Abstract TP326: Lymphopenia, Infectious Complications and Outcome in Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Background and Purpose: lymphopenia is increasingly recognized as a consequence of acute illness and may predispose to infections. We investigated whether admission lymphopenia (AL) is associated with increased risk of infectious complications and poor outcome in patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Methods: we analyzed a prospectively collected cohort of ICH patients ascertained between 1994 and 2015. Subjects were included if they had a lymphocyte count obtained within 24 h from onset and AL was defined as lymphocyte count&lt;1000/uL. Infectious complications were assessed through retrospective chart review and the association between AL, infectious complications and mortality was investigated with a multivariable Cox regression and logistic regression respectively. Results: 2014 patients met the inclusion criteria (median age 75, males 54.0%) of whom 548 (27.2%) had AL and 605 (30.0%) experienced an infectious complication. Overall case fatality at 90 days was 36.9%. Patients with AL were more severely affected, as highlighted by larger hematoma volume, higher frequency of intraventricular hemorrhage and lower Glasgow Coma Scale score (all p&lt;0.001). AL was independently associated with increased risk of pneumonia (Hazard Ratio [HR] 1.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.32-2.05, p&lt;0.001) and multiple infections (HR 1.75, 95% CI 1.22-2.51, p=0.002). The association with urinary tract infection, sepsis or other infections was not significant. AL was also an independent predictor of 90-day mortality (odds ratio 1.55, 95% CI 1.18-2.04, p=0.002) after adjusting for confounders. Conclusions: AL is common in ICH and associated with increased risk of infectious complications and poor outcome. Further studies will be needed to determine whether prophylactic antibiotics in ICH patients with AL can improve outcome.

Ibuprofen Lysine for the Prevention and Treatment of Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Approximately 70-80% of newborns less than 28 weeks' gestational age require pharmacologic and/or surgical intervention to close a hemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). Indomethacin has been the pharmacologic treatment of choice and has also been used prophylactically in very premature neonates to prevent PDA. The drug, however, is associated with renal and gastrointestinal adverse effects. In July 2006, intravenous ibuprofen lysine became available in the United States for treatment of hemodynamically significant PDA. The mechanism of action for both indomethacin and ibuprofen lysine is through inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, resulting in ductal constriction. Both drugs appear to be equally efficacious in closing echocardiographically confirmed PDA. Ibuprofen lysine has demonstrated significantly less effects on cerebral, renal, and mesenteric blood flow in premature neonates when compared with indomethacin. A transient but significant increase in serum creatinine concentration, decrease in urine output, and increase in frequency of oliguria were observed with indomethacin when compared with ibuprofen lysine. However, the rate of reopening of the ductus after pharmacologic closure and the need for rescue therapy were not different between the two drugs. In addition, no differences were noted in other outcomes such as frequency of intraventricular hemorrhage, necrotizing enterocolitis, or chronic lung disease, as well as in duration of mechanical ventilation and length of hospital stay. When administered prophylactically, ibuprofen lysine did not prevent intraventricular hemorrhage nor provide any neurodevelopmental benefits. In addition, ibuprofen lysine has not been adequately studied in neonates of 27 weeks' gestational age or younger. Ibuprofen lysine is as efficacious as indomethacin in treating hemodynamically significant PDA in neonates greater than 27 weeks' gestational age.

Interdisciplinary surveillance of intraventricular haemorrhage associated conditions in infants &lt;1000 g

Intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) causes some of the most adverse outcomes in infants with birthweight <1000 g. Incomplete antenatal steroids, acidosis, inflammation, postnatal transfer, delayed surfactant administration, hypothermia, hypotension, hypocapnia, persistent ductus arteriosus and pneumothorax are all associated with IVH. We hypothesized that prospective surveillance of these IVH-associated conditions decreases their frequency and thus the frequency of IVH. Cranial ultrasound was performed on days 1, 3, 7, 30 after birth and at discharge, and was assessed according to Papile. The incidence of IVH and IVH-associated conditions was monitored prospectively in all infants <1000 g born in our perinatal centre in 2005/2006, and obstetricians and neonatologists held monthly interdisciplinary review conferences to discuss the preventability of IVH-associated conditions (IVH surveillance). These data were compared to existing prospective data gathered during routine monitoring in 2004. IVH (all grades) occurred in 29/86 extremely low birthweight (ELBW) infants during routine monitoring and in 12/89 ELBW infants during IVH surveillance (p = 0.007). IVH grades 3-4 dropped from 20% to 3.4% (p = 0.0006). There were significant differences in completeness of antenatal steroids (54% vs. 67%, p = 0.04) and timeliness in initial surfactant substitution (45% vs. 71%, p = 0.01). Most other IVH-associated conditions were reduced during IVH surveillance without reaching significance. IVH is not always an inevitable disaster. Obstetricians and neonatologists can reduce its incidence by joint prospective surveillance of IVH-associated conditions.

Genetic Polymorphisms of Hemostasis Genes and Primary Outcome of Very Low Birth Weight Infants

Recent investigations have reported an influence of thrombophilic mutations and antithrombotic risk factors with development of intraventricular hemorrhage. It was our objective for this study to investigate the impact of genetic polymorphisms of hemostasis genes on the primary outcome measures of sepsis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, intraventricular hemorrhage, and periventricular leukomalacia in a large cohort of very low birth weight infants. There were 586 very low birth weight infants enrolled prospectively in a multicenter trial between September 2003 and July 2005, and an additional 595 very low birth weight infants, who had been recruited in a previous prospective trial, were studied. DNA samples were taken by buccal swab, and genotypes of factor V Leiden mutation, prothrombin G20210A mutation, the factor VII-323 del/ins polymorphism, and the factor XIII-Val34Leu polymorphisms were determined by polymerase chain reaction and restriction enzyme digestion. In contrast to data published previously, the frequency of intraventricular hemorrhage or periventricular leukomalacia was not significantly influenced by any of the genetic variants tested. Carriers of the factor XIII-Val34Leu polymorphism, however, had a higher sepsis rate and a longer period of hospital care compared with noncarriers. The factor VII-323 del/ins polymorphism was found to be a potential protective factor against bronchopulmonary dysplasia. We could not confirm previously reported associations of hemostasis gene variants and development of intraventricular hemorrhage in very low birth weight infants. To better understand gene-disease associations in very low birth weight infants, the prospective development of large-scale cohorts with well-defined phenotypes and corresponding DNA samples is essential.

41 Comparison of Crib Score and Snappe-II Score as Predictors of Mortality and Morbidity in Premature Infants with Birthweight &lt; 1501 Grams

Background: Neonatal risk scoring systems are designed to predict illness severity and mortality through observations made shortly after birth. The two systems CRIB score and SNAPPE-II score have previously not been compared applied to very low birth weight (VLBW) and extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants. Methods: CRIB score and SNAPPE-II score were applied in a retrospective study on two cohorts of premature infants with BW<1501 grams, born in 1990–91 and 2000–01. Validity of risk scores to mortality and morbidity was assessed through analysis of ROC-curves on both cohorts. Furthermore, the scoring systems were used to analyse the immediate severity of illness in the two cohorts Results: 213 infants were included. CRIB score showed outstanding discrimination of mortality with an area under the ROC-curve of 0.91. For the subgroups VLBW- and ELBW infants the area under the curve was 0.85 and 0.90 respectively. SNAPPE-II score had an excellent discrimination of mortality with an area under the curve of 0.83. For the subgroups VLBW- and ELBW infants the discrimination was excellent and acceptable, respectively; areas of 0.80 and 0,73. BW and gestational age (GA) also offered acceptable discrimination of mortality; areas of 0.74 and 0.73 respectively. As predictors of short-term morbidity, defined as intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), CRIB score was acceptable for the whole study group and for VLBW infants, but not for ELBW infants; areas of 0.77, 0.78 and 0.66 respectively. The same was found for SNAPPE-II score, with areas of 0.74, 0.73 and 0.62, respectively. BW and GA also had acceptable discrimination of morbidity; areas of 0.72 and 0.77, respectively. Infants born in 2000–01 had significantly better respiratory status and CRIB score (4 vs. 1, p<0.01) but not better SNAPPE-II score (30 vs. 24, p=0,26) than infants born in 1990–91. Despite homogeneity in important risk factors there were significantly fewer hospital deaths but no significant change in the frequency of IVH among infants born in 2000–01 compared to infants born in 1990–91. Conclusion: Both CRIB and SNAPPE-II are better predictors of mortality than BW and GA, but not of morbidity, in VLBW- and ELBW infants than BW and GA. Furthermore, infants born in 2000–01 seemed to be less severely ill during the first twelve hours after birth than infants born in 1990–91, based on CRIB score, mainly because of improved respiratory status. This improvement was not reflected in the SNAPPE-II score.

Prevention of Recurrent Preterm Delivery by 17 Alpha-Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate

Preterm delivery before 37 completed weeks gestation remains the major factor influencing infant mortality in developed countries. Women who have had a spontaneous preterm delivery are at much higher risk for another suchdelivery in subsequent pregnancies. A reduced risk has been reported in women given 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17P), a metabolite of progesterone. This multicenter trial evaluated 17P in pregnant women with a history of preterm birth in a previous pregnancy and a current pregnancy at 15 to 20 weeks. The preterm birth had occurred between 20 and 36 weeks 6 days of gestation, and was either spontaneous or a result of premature rupture of the fetal membranes. In a 2:1 ratio, 310 women were assigned to receive weekly intramuscular injections of 250 mg of 17P, whereas 153 received placebo injections. Injections continued until delivery or 36 weeks gestation. The groups were well matched except that placebo recipients had had more previous preterm deliveries. Delivery before 37 weeks gestation occurred in 36% of women given 17P and 55% of the placebo group. Deliveries before 35 weeks also were less frequent in the actively treated group, and deliveries before 32 weeks gestation were 42% less frequent with 17P. Survival analysis indicated significant prolongation of pregnancy with 17P. The adjusted relative risk of preterm delivery in the 17P group compared with placebo recipients was 0.70 (95% confidence interval, 0.57-0.85). It was estimated that only 5 to 6 women resembling those eligible for the present trial would have to be treated to prevent one preterm delivery in their current pregnancy. Miscarriages and stillbirths were slightly but not significantly more frequent in the 17P group. Active treatment significantly reduced the risk of a birth weight below 2500 g. It also lowered the risk of necrotizing enterocolitis, the need for supplemental oxygen, and the frequency of intraventricular hemorrhage (but not grade 3/4 hemorrhage). Weekly injections of the progestational substance 17P substantially lowered the risk of recurrent preterm delivery in these high-risk women.

Frequency of Intraventricular Hemorrhage (IVH) in Prematurity: Inborn Vs. Early Transport

Frequency of Intraventricular Hemorrhage (IVH) in Prematurity: Inborn Vs. Early Transport

Umbilical artery catheters in the newborn: effects of heparin.

This section is under preparation and will be included in the next issue. To determine whether the use of heparin in fluids infused through an umbilical arterial catheter in newborn infants influences the frequency of clinical ischemic events, catheter occlusion, aortic thrombosis, intraventricular hemorrhage, hypertension, death, or the duration of catheter usability. Randomized and quasi randomized controlled trials of umbilical catheterization use were obtained from the following sources: 1. Effective Care of the Newborn Infant, edited by JC Sinclair and MB Bracken. 2. Medline Search using Melvyl Medline Plus and the keyword headings 'Umbilic#', 'Catheter#' and subject heading 'Infant, Newborn' 3. Search of personal data files Randomized trials in newborn infants of any birthweight or gestation. Comparison of heparinised to non heparinised infusion fluids, including comparison of heparin in the infusate to heparin just in the flush solution. Clinically important end points such as catheter occlusion or aortic thrombosis. There were five randomized controlled trials retrieved. All gave details of the incidence of catheter occlusion. Two also reported the incidence of aortic thrombosis. The intervention was reasonably consistent: heparin in the infusate at a concentration of 1 unit/mL was investigated in all trials except one which used a concentration of 0.25 units/mL. Studies generally included both term and preterm infants. Heparinization of the infusate decreases the incidence of catheter occlusion but does not affect the frequency of aortic thrombosis. Heparinization of the flush solution is not an adequate alternative. There does not appear to be an effect on frequency of intraventricular hemorrhage, death or clinical ischemic phenomena. Heparinization of the fluid infused through an umbilical arterial catheter decreases the likelihood of umbilical arterial catheters occluding. The lowest concentration tested so far (0.25 units/mL) has been shown to be effective. Heparinization of flushes without heparinizing the infusate is ineffective. The frequency of aortic thrombosis has not been shown to be affected; however, the confidence intervals for this effect are very wide. The frequency of intraventricular hemorrhage has not been shown to be affected by heparinization of the infusate, but again the confidence intervals are very wide and even a major increase in the incidence of grade 3 and 4 intraventricular hemorrhage would not have been detected.