Neonatal outcomes following extensive cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the delivery room for infants born at less than 33 weeks gestational age

The current clinical landscape of preterm infants less than 32 weeks of gestation receiving delivery room chest compression in Jiangsu Province, China

Objective

To provide an updated review of the clinical profile and outcomes of delivery room chest compression (DR-CC) in China.

Method

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from 23 neonatal intensive care units in Jiangsu, China (2019-2021). Antepartum, delivery room, and postpartum variables in DR-CC-receiving and no-DR-CC groups were compared using uni- and multivariate analyses. The main outcome measure was survival without major morbidities at discharge.

Results

Among 2120 preterm infants of <32 weeks gestational age, 112 (5.39%) received DR-CCs. Forty-two (37.50%) DR-CC-group infants survived without major morbidities at discharge, compared with 1299 (66.17%) no-DR-CC-group infants. The DR-CC group had a lower adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of survival without major morbidities (0.53 [0.31, 0.89]). In secondary outcomes, infants who received DR-CCs had more in-hospital mortality (AOR:1.95[1.12, 3.40]) and a significant increase in the rate of grade 3/4 intraventricular hemorrhage / periventricular leukomalacia or death (AOR: 2.35[1.40, 3.95]), ≥ moderate bronchopulmonary dysplasia or death (AOR: 2.02[1.21, 3.37]), ≥ stage 3 retinopathy of prematurity or death (AOR: 2.22[1.33, 3.69]), ≥ stage 2 necrotizing enterocolitis or death (AOR: 1.83[1.09, 3.07]) and late-onset sepsis or death (AOR:1.66[1.02, 2.70]). In DR-CC-group infants, use of a T-piece resuscitator, noninvasive respiratory support, and higher gestational age significantly influenced survival without morbidities.

Conclusion

This multicenter cohort study revealed the clinical landscape of preterm infants (<32 weeks gestational age) receiving DR-CCs, showing lower survival rates without major morbidities compared to those not receiving DR-CCs.

Addressing the gap in preterm resuscitation practices in high-income and low-middle income countries: a multicenter survey of the Asian neonatal network collaboration

Background

Optimum neonatal resuscitation practices are vital for improving neonatal survival and neurodevelopment outcomes, particularly in extremely preterm infants. However, such practices may vary between high-income countries (HICs) and low-middle-income countries (LMICs). This study aimed to evaluate the resuscitation practices of high-risk infants in a large multi-country sample of healthcare facilities among HICs and LMICs in Asia under the AsianNeo Network.

Methods

In 2021, a customized 6-item online survey on resuscitation practices of infants born at <29 weeks gestation (or birth weight <1,200 g) was sent by the representative of each country's neonatal network to all the Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) participating in AsianNeo network. At the time of the survey, there were 446 participating hospitals in eight countries: four high-income countries (Japan, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan) and four low-middle-income countries (Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, and Thailand).

Results

The study included 446 hospitals, with a response rate of 72.6% (ranging from 62.7% to 100%), with 179 (55.2%) in HICs and 145 (44.7%) in LMICs. Routine attendance of experienced NICU physicians during resuscitations is reported to be higher in HICs than LMICs, both during daytime (79% vs. 40%) and nighttime (62% vs. 23%). The NRP guidelines in each country were varied, with 4 out of 8 countries using indigenously developed guidelines. Equipment availability during resuscitation was also variable; saturation monitors, radiant warmers, and plastic wraps were available in almost all hospitals, whereas oxygen and air blenders, heated humidified gas, and end-tidal CO2 detectors were more available in HICs. The most common device for Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV) was the T-piece resuscitator (52.3%).

Conclusion

The neonatal resuscitation practices for extremely preterm infants, encompassing staff, equipment, and guidelines, exhibited variance between HICs and LMICs in the AsianNeo region. Further enhancements are imperative to narrow this gap and optimize neonatal outcomes.

Reforming early intervention for premature infants: insights into integrated nursing and medical care in Western China

Background

Premature births has imposed substantial burdens on medical resources. Consequently, a specialized team was established and a model focused on early intervention, namely the Delivery Room Intensive Care Unit (DICU) emphasizing "care, support, and treatment" was introduced and its impact on the morbidity and mortality outcomes of newborns was assessed. Additionally, we aimed to develop a nomogram model for predicting the risk of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) in preterm infants.

Methods

A retrospective study involving 2,788 infants was conducted to compare the characteristics and outcomes of infants admitted following the transition from the previous "neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)-centered" approach to the current early "care, support, and treatment" model. Clinical and laboratory data were recorded from birth until their discharge. The primary outcome was IVH, with additional evaluation of mortality and morbidities related to the neurological, respiratory, circulatory, and digestive systems.

Results

The DICU approach significantly declined the incidence of IVH [OR: 0.16, 95% CrI (0.11,0.23)], hypothermia [OR: 0.33, 95% CrI (0.21,0.50)], apnea [OR: 0.60, 95% CrI (0.47,0.75)], perinatal respiratory diseases [OR: 0.63, 95% CrI (0.52,0.75)] and metabolic acidosis [OR: 0.24, 95% CrI (0.16,0.34)]. Five predictors were selected: DICU exposure, gestational age, birth weight, ventilation mode within seven days, and ibuprofen use (d). The model built by these predictors displayed good prediction ability with the area under the ROC curve of 0.793 in the training set and 0.803 in the validation set.

Conclusions

The standardized DICU model had significantly reduced the incidences of morbidities. The risk nomogram is useful for prediction of IVH risk in eligible infants, with a high accuracy, sensitivity, consistency, and practicability. This study emphasizes the shift in early intervention concepts and team collaboration sets "neonatologists, neonatal nurse practitioners, and respiratory therapists", which advocates for standardized decision-making for treatment from the delivery room to improve the success rate of resuscitation and enhance the prognosis of these infants.

Chest compressions superimposed with sustained inflation during neonatal cardiopulmonary resuscitation: are we ready for a clinical trial?

Neonates requiring cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) are at risk of mortality and neurodevelopmental injury. Poor outcomes following the need for chest compressions (CCs) in the delivery room prompt the critical need for improvements in resuscitation strategies. This article explores a technique of CPR which involves CCs with sustained inflation (CC+SI). Unique features of CC+SI include (1) improved tidal volume delivery, (2) passive ventilation during compressions, (3) uninterrupted compressions and (4) improved stability of cerebral blood flow during resuscitation. CC+SI has been shown in animal studies to have improved time to return of spontaneous circulation and reduced mortality without significant increase in markers of inflammation and injury in the lung and brain, compared with standard CPR. The mechanics of CCs, rate of compressions, ventilation strategies and compression-to-ventilation ratios are detailed here. A large randomised controlled trial comparing CC+SI versus the current 3:1 compression-to-ventilation ratio is needed, given the growing evidence of its potential benefits.

Resuscitation education for NICU providers: Current practice and recommendations for NRP and PALS in the NICU

The Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) is the most used resuscitation algorithm for infants requiring resuscitation in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The population of infants cared for in the NICU is varied and complex with resuscitation needs that may extend beyond the NRP algorithm. To provide resuscitation care that addresses these needs, institutions may choose to incorporate algorithms from the Pediatric Advanced Life Support or a "hybrid" approach that includes NRP. Limited evidence exists to support one algorithm or approach over another. In this article, we identify potential gaps in the application of using NRP or PALS in the NICU population, present select patient decompensations and discuss the resuscitation management approach using the NRP or PALS algorithms. Challenges associated with NICU resuscitation education will be explored as well as approaches to overcome some of the identified resuscitation education obstacles.

Sustained inflation and chest compression versus 3:1 chest compression to ventilation ratio during cardiopulmonary resuscitation of asphyxiated newborns (SURV1VE): A cluster randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

In newborn infants requiring chest compression (CC) in the delivery room (DR) does continuous CC superimposed by a sustained inflation (CC+SI) compared with a 3:1 compression:ventilation (3:1 C:V) ratio decreases time to return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC).

DESIGN

International, multicenter, prospective, cluster cross-over randomised trial.

SETTING

DR in four hospitals in Canada and Austria, PARTICIPANTS: Newborn infants >28 weeks' gestation who required CC.

INTERVENTIONS

Hospitals were randomised to CC+SI or 3:1 C:V then crossed over to the other intervention.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

The primary outcome was time to ROSC, defined as the duration of CC until an increase in heart rate >60/min determined by auscultation of the heart, which was maintained for 60 s. Sample size of 218 infants (109/group) was sufficient to detect a clinically important 33% reduction (282 vs 420 s of CC) in time to ROSC. Analysis was intention-to-treat.

RESULTS

Patient recruitment occurred between 19 October 2017 and 22 September 2022 and randomised 27 infants (CC+SI (n=12), 3:1 C:V (n=15), two (one per group) declined consent). All 11 infants in the CC+SI group and 12/14 infants in the 3:1 C:V group achieved ROSC in the DR. The median (IQR) time to ROSC was 90 (60-270) s and 615 (174-780) s (p=0.0502 (log rank), p=0.16 (cox proportional hazards regression)) with CC+SI and 3:1 C:V, respectively. Mortality was 2/11 (18.2%) with CC+SI versus 8/14 (57.1%) with 3:1 C:V (p=0.10 (Fisher's exact test), OR (95% CI) 0.17; (0.03 to 1.07)). The trial was stopped due to issues with ethics approval and securing trial insurance as well as funding reasons.

CONCLUSION

The time to ROSC and mortality was not statistical different between CC+SI and 3:1 C:V.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT02858583.

The influence of chorioamnionitis on respiratory drive and spontaneous breathing of premature infants at birth: a narrative review

Most very premature infants breathe at birth but require respiratory support in order to stimulate and support their breathing. A significant proportion of premature infants are affected by chorioamnionitis, defined as an umbrella term for antenatal inflammation of the foetal membranes and umbilical vessels. Chorioamnionitis produces inflammatory mediators that potentially depress the respiratory drive generated in the brainstem. Such respiratory depression could maintain itself by delaying lung aeration, hampering respiratory support at birth and putting infants at risk of hypoxic injury. This inflammatory-mediated respiratory depression may contribute to an association between chorioamnionitis and increased requirement of neonatal resuscitation in premature infants at birth. This narrative review summarises mechanisms on how respiratory drive and spontaneous breathing could be influenced by chorioamnionitis and provides possible interventions to stimulate spontaneous breathing.  Conclusion: Chorioamnionitis could possibly depress respiratory drive and spontaneous breathing in premature infants at birth. Interventions to stimulate spontaneous breathing could therefore be valuable. What is Known: • A large proportion of premature infants are affected by chorioamnionitis, antenatal inflammation of the foetal membranes and umbilical vessels. What is New: • Premature infants affected by chorioamnionitis might be exposed to higher concentrations of respiratory drive inhibitors which could depress breathing at birth. • Premature infants affected by chorioamnionitis seem to be associated with a higher and more extensive requirement of resuscitation at birth.

Delivery room resuscitation intensity and associated neonatal outcomes of 24+0-31+6 weeks' preterm infants in China: a retrospective cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to review current delivery room (DR) resuscitation intensity in Chinese tertiary neonatal intensive care units and to investigate the association between DR resuscitation intensity and short-term outcomes in preterm infants born at 24+0-31+6 weeks' gestation age (GA).

METHODS

This was a retrospective cross-sectional study. The source population was infants born at 24+0-31+6 weeks' GA who were enrolled in the Chinese Neonatal Network 2019 cohort. Eligible infants were categorized into five groups: (1) regular care; (2) oxygen supplementation and/or continuous positive airway pressure (O2/CPAP); (3) mask ventilation; (4) endotracheal intubation; and (5) cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The association between DR resuscitation and short-term outcomes was evaluated by inverse propensity score-weighted logistic regression.

RESULTS

Of 7939 infants included in this cohort, 2419 (30.5%) received regular care, 1994 (25.1%) received O2/CPAP, 1436 (18.1%) received mask ventilation, 1769 (22.3%) received endotracheal intubation, and 321 (4.0%) received CPR in the DR. Advanced maternal age and maternal hypertension correlated with a higher need for resuscitation, and antenatal steroid use tended to be associated with a lower need for resuscitation (P < 0.001). Severe brain impairment increased significantly with increasing amounts of resuscitation in DR after adjusting for perinatal factors. Resuscitation strategies vary widely between centers, with over 50% of preterm infants in eight centers requiring higher intensity resuscitation.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased intensity of DR interventions was associated with increased mortality and morbidities in very preterm infants in China. There is wide variation in resuscitative approaches across delivery centers, and ongoing quality improvement to standardize resuscitation practices is needed.

Video-Recorded Airway Suctioning of Clear and Meconium-Stained Amniotic Fluid and Associated Short-Term Outcomes in Moderately and Severely Depressed Preterm and Term Infants

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to investigate delivery room airway suctioning and associated short-term outcomes in depressed infants.

METHODS

This is a single-centre prospective observational study of transcribed video recordings of preterm (gestational age, GA < 37 weeks) and term (GA ≥ 37 weeks) infants with a 5 min Apgar score ≤ 7. We analysed the association between airway suctioning, breathing, bradycardia and prolonged resuscitation (≥10 min). For comparison, non-suctioned infants with a 5 min Apgar score ≤ 7 were included.

RESULTS

Two hundred suction episodes were performed in 19 premature and 56 term infants. Breathing improved in 1.9% of premature and 72.1% of term infants, and remained unchanged in 84.9% of premature and 27.9% of term infants after suctioning. In our study, 61 (81.3%) preterm and term infants who were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit experienced bradycardia after airway suctioning. However, the majority of the preterm and more than half of the term infants were bradycardic before the suction procedure was attempted. Among the non-airway suctioned infants (n = 26), 73.1% experienced bradycardia, with 17 non-airway suctioned infants being admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit. There was a need for resuscitation ≥ 10 min in 8 (42.1%) preterm and 32 (57.1%) term infants who underwent airway suctioning, compared to 2 (33.3%) preterm and 19 (95.0%) term infants who did not receive airway suctioning.

CONCLUSIONS

In the infants that underwent suctioning, breathing improved in most term, but not preterm infants. More non-suctioned term infants needed prolonged resuscitation. Airway suctioning was not directly associated with worsening of breathing, bradycardia, or extended resuscitation needs.

Evaluating the feasibility of a multicenter teleneonatology clinical effectiveness trial

BACKGROUND

Our research consortium is preparing for a prospective multicenter trial evaluating the impact of teleneonatology on the health outcomes of at-risk neonates born in community hospitals. We completed a 6-month pilot study to determine the feasibility of the trial protocol.

METHODS

Four neonatal intensive care units ("hubs") and four community hospitals ("spokes") participated in the pilot-forming four hub-spoke dyads. Two hub-spoke dyads implemented synchronous, audio-video telemedicine consultations with a neonatologist ("teleneonatology"). The primary outcome was a composite feasibility score that included one point for each of the following: site retention, on-time screening log completion, no eligibility errors, on-time data submission, and sponsor site-dyad meeting attendance (score range 0-5).

RESULTS

For the 20 hub-spoke dyad months, the mean (range) composite feasibility score was 4.6 (4, 5). All sites were retained during the pilot. Ninety percent (18/20) of screening logs were completed on time. The eligibility error rate was 0.2% (3/1809). On-time data submission rate was 88.4% (84/95 case report forms). Eighty-five percent (17/20) of sponsor site-dyad meetings were attended by both hub and spoke site staff.

CONCLUSIONS

A multicenter teleneonatology clinical effectiveness trial is feasible. Learnings from the pilot study may improve the likelihood of success of the main trial.

IMPACT

A prospective, multicenter clinical trial evaluating the impact of teleneonatology on the early health outcomes of at-risk neonates born in community hospitals is feasible. A multidimensional composite feasibility score, which includes processes and procedures fundamental to completing a clinical trial, is useful for quantitatively measuring pilot study success. A pilot study allows the investigative team to test trial methods and materials to identify what works well or requires modification. Learnings from a pilot study may improve the quality and efficiency of the main effectiveness trial.

Current controversies in neonatal resuscitation

The goal of neonatal bioethics is to help clinicians navigate difficult decisions that arise every day in the care of critically ill newborns. Over the last few decades, there have been vigorous discussions of numerous ethical issues. For some, we have worked out a tentative societal agreement for appropriate responses. Others remain contentious and controversial. They evoke moral distress. In this article, we address some of these unresolved issues including the changing landscape of duration and viability threshold for newborn resuscitation, the issue of borderline of viability and the ethical controversies that arise when each center has its own policies, and some of the challenges that arise in Fetal Care Centers (FCC). Finally, we propose a generalizable model of shared decision making.

Resuscitation decisions in fetal myelomeningocele repair should center on parents' values: a counter analysis

In our response to, "Parental request for non-resuscitation in fetal myelomeningocele repair: an analysis of the novel ethical tensions in fetal intervention" by Wolfe and co-authors, we argue that parental authority should guide resuscitation decision-making for a fetus at risk for preterm delivery as a complication of fetal myelomeningocele (fMMC) repair. Due to the elevated morbidity and mortality risks of combined myelomeningocele, extreme prematurity, and fetal hypoxia, parents' values regarding the acceptability of possible outcomes should be elicited and their preferences honored. Ethical decision-making in these situations must also consider the broader context of the fetal-maternal dyad. Innovations in fetoscopic approaches to fMMC repair may pose additional complexity to these resuscitation decisions.

Assessment of optimal chest compression depth during neonatal cardiopulmonary resuscitation: a randomised controlled animal trial

AIM

The study aimed to examine the optimal anterior-posterior depth which will reduce the time to return of spontaneous circulation and improve survival during chest compressions. Asphyxiated neonatal piglets receiving chest compression resuscitated with a 40% anterior-posterior chest depth compared with 33%, 25% or 12.5% will have reduced time to return of spontaneous circulation and improved survival.

METHODS

Newborn piglets (n=8 per group) were anaesthetised, intubated, instrumented and exposed to 45 min normocapnic hypoxia followed by asphyxia and cardiac arrest. Piglets were randomly allocated to four intervention groups ('anterior-posterior 12.5% depth', 'anterior-posterior 25% depth', 'anterior-posterior 33% depth' or 'anterior-posterior 40% depth'). Chest compressions were performed using an automated chest compression machine with a rate of 90 per minute. Haemodynamic and respiratory parameters, applied compression force, and chest compression depth were continuously measured.

RESULTS

The median (IQR) time to return of spontaneous circulation was 600 (600-600) s, 135 (90-589) s, 85 (71-158)* s and 116 (63-173)* s for the 12.5%, 25%, 33% and 40% depth groups, respectively (*p<0.001 vs 12.5%). The number of piglets that achieved return of spontaneous circulation was 0 (0%), 6 (75%), 7 (88%) and 7 (88%) in the 12.5%, 25%, 33% and 40% anterior-posterior depth groups, respectively. Arterial blood pressure, central venous pressure, carotid blood flow, applied compression force, tidal volume and minute ventilation increased with greater anterior-posterior chest depth during chest compression.

CONCLUSIONS

Time to return of spontaneous circulation and survival were similar between 25%, 33% and 40% anterior-posterior depths, while 12.5% anterior-posterior depth did not result in return of spontaneous circulation or survival. Haemodynamic and respiratory parameters improved with increasing anterior-posterior depth, suggesting improved organ perfusion and oxygen delivery with 33%-40% anterior-posterior depth.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

PTCE0000193.

Effect of rotating providers on chest compression performance during simulated neonatal cardiopulmonary resuscitation

Objective

Simulation studies in adults and pediatrics demonstrate improvement in chest compression (CCs) quality as providers rotate every two minutes. There is paucity of studies in neonates on this matter. This study hypothesized that frequent rotation while performing CCs improves provider performance and decreases fatigue.

Study design

Prospective randomized, observational crossover study where 51 providers performed 3:1 compression-ventilation CPR as a pair on a term manikin. Participants performed CCs as part of 3 simulation models, rotating every 3, 5 and 10 minutes. Data on various CC metrics were collected. Participant vitals were recorded at multiple points during the simulation and participants reported their level of fatigue at completion of simulation.

Results

No statistically significant difference was seen in any of the compression metrics. However, differences in the providers’ fatigue scores were statistically significant.

Conclusion

CC performance metrics did not differ significantly, however, providers’ vital signs and self-reported fatigue scores significantly increased with longer CC durations.

Recent Update on Neonatal Resuscitation

Every 5 y, the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation publishes consensus on cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and emergency cardiovascular science and treatment recommendations. The latest update on neonatal resuscitation guidelines was published in 2020. Here, the authors review the important changes in the recent recommendations, including initial steps of resuscitation, umbilical cord management, management of nonvigorous infants born through meconium-stained amniotic fluid, sustained inflation in preterm infants, epinephrine, vascular access, timing of discontinuation of resuscitative effort, and team briefing and debriefing.

Thermal servo-controlled systems in the management of VLBW infants at birth: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Thermal management of the newborn at birth remains an actual challenge. This systematic review aimed to summarize current evidence on the use of thermal servo-controlled systems during stabilization of preterm and VLBW infants immediately at birth.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was conducted including MEDLINE/Pubmed, EMBASE, SCOPUS, clinicaltrials.gov, and the Cochrane Database through December 2021. PRISMA guidelines were followed. Risk of bias was appraised using Cochrane RoB2 and Risk Of Bias In Non-Randomized Studies of Interventions (ROBIN-I) tools, and certainty of evidence using GRADE framework.

RESULTS

One randomized controlled trial and one observational study were included. Some aspects precluded the feasibility of a meaningful meta-analysis; hence, a qualitative review was conducted. Risk of bias was low in the trial and serious in the observational study. In the trial, the servo-controlled system did not affect normothermia (36.5-37.5°C) but was associated with increased mild hypothermia (from 22.2 to 32.9%). In the observational study, normothermia (36-38°C) increased after the introduction of the servo-controlled system and the extension to larger VLBW infants.

CONCLUSION

Overall, this review found very limited information on the use of thermal servo-controlled systems during stabilization of preterm and VLBW infants immediately at birth. Further research is needed to investigate the opportunity of including such approach in the neonatal thermal management in delivery room.

REGISTRATION

PROSPERO (CRD42022309323).

Delivery Room Care for Premature Infants Born after Less than 25 Weeks' Gestation-A Narrative Review

Premature infants born after less than 25 weeks' gestation are particularly vulnerable at birth and stabilization in the delivery room (DR) is challenging. After birth, infants born after <25 weeks' gestation develop respiratory and hemodynamic instability due to their immature physiology and anatomy. Successful stabilization at birth has the potential to reduce morbidities and mortalities, while suboptimal DR care could increase long-term sequelae. This article reviews current neonatal resuscitation guidelines and addresses challenges during DR stabilization in extremely premature infants born after <25 weeks' gestation at the threshold of viability.

Use of telemedicine to support neonatal resuscitation

Neonatal tele-resuscitation programs use synchronous audio-video telemedicine systems to connect neonatologists with community hospital care teams during high risk resuscitations. Using tele-resuscitation, remote neonatologists can visualize and actively guide the resuscitation and stabilization of at-risk neonates. The feasibility of tele-resuscitation has been proven, and early evidence suggests that tele-resuscitation improves the quality of care, reduces unnecessary medical transports, and may generate a net savings to the health system. Community hospital staff and remote neonatologists are highly satisfied with tele-resuscitation programs. Tele-resuscitation presents an opportunity to improve healthcare delivery for neonates regardless of their birth location. The neonatology community should work to identify and rigorously study the value tele-resuscitation can bring to neonates, their families, and care teams.

Is Chest Compression Superimposed with Sustained Inflation during Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation an Alternative to 3:1 Compression to Ventilation Ratio in Newborn Infants?

Approximately 0.1% for term and 10-15% of preterm infants receive chest compression (CC) in the delivery room, with high incidence of mortality and neurologic impairment. The poor prognosis associated with receiving CC in the delivery room has raised concerns as to whether specifically-tailored cardiopulmonary resuscitation methods are needed. The current neonatal resuscitation guidelines recommend a 3:1 compression:ventilation ratio; however, the most effective approach to deliver chest compression is unknown. We recently demonstrated that providing continuous chest compression superimposed with a high distending pressure or sustained inflation significantly reduced time to return of spontaneous circulation and mortality while improving respiratory and cardiovascular parameters in asphyxiated piglet and newborn infants. This review summarizes the current available evidence of continuous chest compression superimposed with a sustained inflation.

Delivery Room Management of Asphyxiated Term and Near-Term Infants

Approximately 800,000 newborns die annually due to birth asphyxia. The resuscitation of asphyxiated term newly born infants often occurs unexpected and is challenging for healthcare providers as it demands experience and knowledge in neonatal resuscitation. Current neonatal resuscitation guidelines often focus on resuscitation of extremely and/or very preterm infants; however, the recommendations for asphyxiated term newborn infants differ in some aspects to those for preterm infants (i.e., respiratory support, supplemental oxygen, and temperature management). Since the update of the neonatal resuscitation guidelines in 2015, several studies examining various resuscitation approaches to improve the outcome of asphyxiated infants have been published. In this review, we discuss current recommendations and recent findings and provide an overview of delivery room management of asphyxiated term newborn infants.

Neonatal delivery room CPR: An analysis of the Get with the Guidelines®-Resuscitation Registry

BACKGROUND

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the delivery room (DR) after birth is rare. We hypothesized that factors related to maternal, delivery, infant and resuscitation event characteristics associated with outcomes could be identified. We also hypothesized there would be substantial variation from the Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) algorithm.

METHODS

Retrospective review of all neonates receiving chest compressions in the DR from the AHA Get With The Guidelines-Resuscitation registry from 2001 to 2014. The primary outcome was return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) in the DR. Secondary outcome was survival to hospital discharge. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize data. Odds ratios with confidence intervals were calculated as appropriate to compare survivors and non-survivors.

RESULTS

There were 1153 neonates who received chest compressions in the DR. ROSC was achieved in 968 (84%) newborns and 761 (66%) survived to hospital discharge. Fifty-one percent of the cohort received chest compressions without medications. Cardiac compressions were initiated within the first minute of life in 76% of the events, and prior to endotracheal intubation in 79% of the events. In univariate analysis, factors such as prematurity, number of endotracheal intubation attempts, increased time to first adrenaline dose, and CPR duration were associated with decreased odds of ROSC in the DR. Longer CPR duration was associated with decreased odds of ROSC in multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSION

In this cohort of infants receiving chest compressions following delivery, recognizable pre-birth risk factors as well as resuscitation interventions associated with increased and decreased odds of achieving ROSC were identified. Chest compressions were frequently initiated in the first minute of the event and often prior to endotracheal intubation. Further investigations should focus on methods to decrease time to critical resuscitation interventions, such as successful endotracheal intubation and administration of the first dose of adrenaline, in order to improve DR-CPR outcomes.

Outcomes of neonates born at <26 weeks gestational age who receive extensive cardiopulmonary resuscitation compared with airway and breathing support

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate outcomes of preterm infants <26 weeks gestational age (GA) following postdelivery extensive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) compared with airway and breathing support (ABS).

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review of Canadian Neonatal Network data during January 2010 to December 2016. The primary outcome was death or severe morbidity (intraventricular hemorrhage ≥grade 3 or periventricular leucomalacia, retinopathy of prematurity ≥stage 3, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, or necrotizing enterocolitis).

RESULT

Among 3633 infants analyzed, 433 (11.9%) received ECPR. In multivariable analysis, death or severe morbidity was higher in the ECPR versus ABS group [adjusted odds ratio 2.26 (95% confidence interval 1.49, 3.43)]. The majority of the difference was due to increased mortality, which occurred mostly during the first week of life.

CONCLUSION

These data from a recent cohort of infants near the limits of viability may be useful for prognostication for health care providers and counseling of parents.

Association between insulin and post-caesarean resuscitation rates in infants of women with GDM: A retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and caesarean deliveries independently increase the risk of postoperative complications. There are limited data on the influence of insulin use on the outcomes of neonates who were delivered via caesarean section. We sought to investigate the impact of insulin use in women with GDM on resuscitation rates of infants post caesarean delivery.

METHODS

A retrospective database review of women with singleton term (≥ 37 weeks) pregnancies who were on insulin for GDM delivering between January 2005 and December 2014 at a major metropolitan hospital in Sydney.

RESULTS

One thousand eight hundred and fifty-seven women with GDM were identified. The mean age was 31.01 ± 5.63 years and mean gestational period of 39.07 ± 1.00 weeks. 31.0% received insulin treatment for GDM. Women who were on insulin were older (31.9 ± 5.7 vs 30.6 ± 5.6 years, P < 0.001), had a higher body mass index (BMI) (31.2 ± 7.7 vs 29.0 ± 7.4 kg/m2, P < 0.001), higher rates of preeclampsia (7.3% vs 4.1%, P = 0.004), lower rates of alcohol consumption (0.4% vs 1.7%, P = 0.014), and had infants with lower resuscitation rates (21.2% vs 28.6%, P = 0.001). Infants who required resuscitation had a lower gestational age, lower five-minute APGAR score, and lower birth weight, length, and head circumferences. On multivariate analysis, women with GDM treated with insulin (odds ratio [OR] = 0.69, CI = 0.54-0.89, P = 0.004), higher gestational age (OR = 0.88, CI = 0.78-0.99, P = 0.032), higher maternal BMI (OR = 1.02, CI = 1.01-1.04, P = 0.005), and emergency caesarean (OR = 2.33, CI = 1.74-3.12, P < 0.001) independently predicted incidence of resuscitation.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest a relationship between insulin use and reduced resuscitation rates of infants born from mothers with GDM. Further studies investigating the role, dosage, and criteria for insulin use in women with GDM are required.

Survival after delivery room cardiopulmonary resuscitation: A national registry study

AIMS

Survival after delivery room cardiopulmonary resuscitation (DR-CPR) is not well characterized in full-term infants, and survival outcomes after DR-CPR have not been defined across the spectrum of gestation. The study objectives were to define gestational age (GA) specific survival following DR-CPR and to assess the association between GA and DR-CPR characteristics and survival outcomes.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study of prospectively collected data in the American Heart Association Get With the Guidelines-Resuscitation registry. Newborn infants without congenital abnormalities who received greater than 1 min of chest compressions for DR-CPR were included. GA was stratified by categorical subgroups: ≥36 weeks; 33-35^6/7 weeks; 29-32^6/7 weeks; 25-28^6/7 weeks; 22-24^6/7 weeks. The primary outcome was survival to hospital discharge; the secondary outcome was return of circulation (ROC).

RESULTS

Among 1022 infants who received DR-CPR, 83% experienced ROC and 64% survived to hospital discharge. GA-stratified hospital survival rates were 83% (≥36 weeks), 66% (33-35 weeks), 60% (29-32 weeks), 52% (25-28 weeks), and 25% (22-24 weeks). Compared with GA ≥ 36 weeks, lower GA was independently associated with decreasing odds of survival (33-35 weeks: adjusted Odds Ratio [aOR] 0.46, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 0.26-0.81; 29-32 weeks: aOR 0.40, 95% CI 0.23-0.69; 25-28 weeks: aOR 0.21, 95% CI 0.11-0.41; 22-24 weeks: aOR 0.06, 95% CI 0.03-0.10).

CONCLUSIONS

In this national registry of infants who received delivery room cardiopulmonary resuscitation (DR-CPR), 83% survived the event and two-thirds survived to hospital discharge. These results contribute to defining survival outcomes following DR-CPR across the continuum of gestation.

Outcomes of outborn extremely preterm neonates admitted to a NICU with respiratory distress

OBJECTIVE

To compare the risk of mortality and morbidity between outborn and propensity score-matched inborn extremely preterm neonates.

SETTING

Multiple neonatal intensive care units (NICU) across the USA.

PATIENTS

Singleton neonates born at 22-29 weeks' gestation with no major anomalies who were admitted to a NICU and discharged between 2000 and 2014. Outborn neonates were restricted to those who transferred into a NICU on the day of birth.

METHODS

The association between inborn-outborn status and the time-to-event outcomes of in-hospital mortality and necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) were assessed using Cox proportional hazards regression. Logistic regression was used to assess the remaining secondary outcomes: retinopathy of prematurity requiring treatment (tROP), chronic lung disease (CLD), periventricular leucomalacia (PVL) and severe intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH). Since outborn status was not random, we used 1:1 propensity score matching to reduce the imbalance in illness severity.

RESULTS

There were 59 942 neonates (7991 outborn) included in the study. Outborn neonates had poorer survival than inborns and higher rates of NEC, severe IVH, tROP and PVL. Inborn-outborn disparities in mortality were reduced over the study period. When analysing the matched cohort (6524 matched pairs), outborns were less likely to die in-hospital compared with inborns (HR 0.84, 95% CI 0.77 to 0.91). However, outborns experienced higher rates of NEC (HR 1.14, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.25), severe IVH (OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.38 to 1.68), tROP (OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.25 to 1.69) and CLD (OR 1.12, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.24).

CONCLUSION

Additional research is needed to understand the contributors to increased morbidity for outborn extremely preterm neonates and identify interventions that mitigate this risk.

Chest Compressions in the Delivery Room

Annually, an estimated 13–26 million newborns need respiratory support and 2–3 million newborns need extensive resuscitation, defined as chest compression and 100% oxygen with or without epinephrine in the delivery room. Despite such care, there is a high incidence of mortality and neurologic morbidity. The poor prognosis associated with receiving chest compression alone or with medications in the delivery room raises questions as to whether improved cardiopulmonary resuscitation methods specifically tailored to the newborn could improve outcomes. This review discusses the current recommendations, mode of action, different compression to ventilation ratios, continuous chest compression with asynchronous ventilations, chest compression and sustained inflation optimal depth, and oxygen concentration during cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Evidence for vasopressors during cardiopulmonary resuscitation in newborn infants

An estimated 0.1% of term infants and up to 15% of preterm infants (2-3 million worldwide) need extensive resuscitation, defined as chest compression and 100% oxygen with or without epinephrine in the delivery room. Despite these interventions, infants receiving extensive resuscitation in the DR have a high incidence of mortality and neurologic morbidity. Successful resuscitation from neonatal cardiac arrest requires the delivery of high-quality chest compression using the most effective vasopressor with the optimal dose, timing, and route of administration during CPR. Current neonatal resuscitation guidelines recommend administration of epinephrine once CPR has started at a dose of 0.01-0.03 mg/kg preferably given intravenously, with repeated doses every 3-5 min until return of spontaneous circulation. This review examines the current evidence for epinephrine and alternative vasopressors during neonatal cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Delivery Room Resuscitation and Short-Term Outcomes in Moderately Preterm Infants

OBJECTIVES

To describe the frequency and extent of delivery room resuscitation and evaluate the association of delivery room resuscitation with neonatal outcomes in moderately preterm (MPT) infants.

STUDY DESIGN

This was an observational cohort study of MPT infants delivered at 29^0/7 to 33^6/7 weeks' gestational age (GA) enrolled in the Neonatal Research Network MPT registry. Infants were categorized into 5 groups based on the highest level of delivery room intervention: routine care, oxygen and/or continuous positive airway pressure, bag and mask ventilation, endotracheal intubation, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation including chest compressions and/or epinephrine use. The association of antepartum and intrapartum risk factors and discharge outcomes with the intensity of resuscitation was evaluated.

RESULTS

Of 7014 included infants, 1684 (24.0%) received routine care and no additional resuscitation, 2279 (32.5%) received oxygen or continuous positive airway pressure, 1831 (26.1%) received bag and mask ventilation, 1034 (14.7%) underwent endotracheal intubation, and 186 (2.7%) received cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Among the antepartum and intrapartum factors, increasing GA, any exposure to antenatal steroids and prolonged rupture of membranes decreased the likelihood of receipt of all levels of resuscitation. Infants who were small for GA (SGA) had increased risk of delivery room resuscitation. Among the neonatal outcomes, respiratory support at 28 days, days to full oral feeds and length of stay were significantly associated with the intensity of delivery room resuscitation. Higher intensity of resuscitation was associated with increased risk of mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of MPT infants receive some level of delivery room resuscitation. Increased intensity of delivery room interventions was associated with prolonged respiratory and nutritional support, increased mortality, and a longer length of stay.

Neonatal outcomes based on mode and intensity of delivery room resuscitation

OBJECTIVE

To examine outcomes of neonates based on the mode and intensity of resuscitation received in the delivery room (DR).

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective study of 439 infants with birth weight ⩽1500 g receiving DR resuscitation at two hospital centers in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

RESULTS

Of 439 infants, 22 (5%) received routine care, 188 (43%) received noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (PPV) and 229 (52%) received endotracheal tube (ETT) intubation in the DR. Adjusted odds for respiratory distress syndrome was associated with lower rates in infants requiring lower intensity of DR resuscitation (P<0.001). Noninvasive PPV vs ETT was associated with decreased odds of developing intraventricular hemorrhage and retinopathy of prematurity (P<0.05). Routine vs noninvasive PPV or ETT had decreased odds of developing bronchopulmonary dysplasia (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Decreased intensity of DR resuscitation was associated with a decreased risk of specific morbidities.

Delivery room resuscitation and adverse outcomes among very low birth weight preterm infants

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate risk factors and impact of delivery room cardiopulmonary resuscitation (DR-CPR) on very low birth weight (VLBW) preterm infants.

STUDY DESIGN

A national, population-based, observational study evaluating risk factors and short-term neonatal outcomes associated with DR-CPR among VLBW, extremely preterm infants (EPIs, 24 to 27 weeks' gestation) and very preterm infants (VPI, 28 to 31 weeks' gestation) born in 1995 to 2010.

RESULTS

Among 17 564 VLBW infants, 636 (3.6%) required DR-CPR. In the group of 6478 EPI, 412 (6.4%) received DR-CPR compared with 224 of 11 086 infants (2.0%) in the VPI group. EPI who underwent DR-CPR had higher odds ratios (ORs (95% confidence interval)) for mortality compared to EPI not requiring DR-CPR (OR 3.32 (2.58, 4.29)), grades 3 to 4 intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) (OR 1.59 (1.20, 2.10)) and periventricular leukomalacia (OR 1.81 (1.17, 2.82)). DR-CPR among VPI was associated with higher ORs for mortality (OR 4.99 (3.59, 6.94)), early sepsis (OR 2.07 (1.05, 4.09)), grades 3 to 4 IVH (OR 3.74 (2.55, 5.50)) and grades 3 to 4 retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) (OR 2.53 (1.18, 5.41)) compared to VPI not requiring DR-CPR. Only 11% of infants in the EPI DR-CPR group had favorable outcomes compared with 44% in the VPI DR-CPR group. Significantly higher ORs for mortality, IVH and ROP were found in the VPI compared to the EPI group.

CONCLUSION

Preterm VLBW infants requiring DR-CPR were at increased risk of adverse outcomes compared to those not requiring CPR. This effect was more pronounced in the VPI group.

Tackling Quality Improvement in the Delivery Room

Implementation of standardized practices in the delivery room fosters a safe environment to ensure that newborn infants are cared for optimally, whether or not they require extensive resuscitation. Quality improvement (QI) is an excellent methodology for implementation of standardized practices due to the multidisciplinary nature of the delivery room, complexity of tasks involved, and opportunities to track processes and outcomes. This article discusses how the delivery room is a unique environment and presents examples on how to approach delivery room QI. Key areas of potential focus for teams pursuing delivery QI include thermal regulation, optimizing respiratory support, and facilitating team communication.

Characteristics and outcomes of very low birth weight infants receiving epinephrine during delivery room resuscitation

BACKGROUND

Delivery room resuscitation of very low birth weight infants can involve use of endotracheal or intravenous epinephrine. Data of the past 19 years were reviewed to identify the usage of epinephrine in delivery room and identify characteristics of these babies.

METHODS

Neonates with ≤1500g birthweight from January 1996 to August 2014 were reviewed. Infants born alive and admitted to NICU were eligible. Characteristics such as demographics, survival and outcomes were recorded. Variables significant at p≤0.1 among neonates receiving epinephrine were further analyzed via multiple logistic regressions.

RESULTS

Out of 5868 eligible neonates, 416 (7%) received epinephrine in the delivery room. The infants who received epinephrine were of lower estimated gestational age (25 vs. 28wk) and lower birth weight (746 vs. 980g). Gender, race and mode of delivery were comparable between the two cohorts. Survival was higher in non-epinephrine group (89.4 vs. 61.1%). Bacterial infection (24.3 vs. 18.4%) and combined grade 3 and 4 intraventricular hemorrhage (18.4 vs. 8.4%) were higher in epinephrine group. Use of epinephrine in the delivery room was associated with decreased survival even after controlling for birth weight, gestational age and low Apgar scores [Odd ratio - 0.48 with 95% CI (0.37-0.62), p<0.001].

CONCLUSION

Neonates with lower birth weight and younger gestational age were more likely to receive epinephrine during resuscitation at birth. Use of epinephrine in delivery room was associated with lower survival and severe intraventricular hemorrhage among very low birth weight infants.

Cardiorespiratory Monitoring during Neonatal Resuscitation for Direct Feedback and Audit

Neonatal resuscitation is one of the most frequently performed procedures, and it is often successful if the ventilation applied is adequate. Over the last decade, interest in seeking objectivity in evaluating the infant's condition at birth or the adequacy and effect of the interventions applied has markedly increased. Clinical parameters such as heart rate, color, and chest excursions are difficult to interpret and can be very subjective and subtle. The use of ECG, pulse oximetry, capnography, and respiratory function monitoring can add objectivity to the clinical assessment. These physiological parameters, with or without the combination of video recordings, can not only be used directly to guide care but also be used later for audit and teaching purposes. Further studies are needed to investigate whether this will improve the quality of delivery room management. In this narrative review, we will give an update of the current developments in monitoring neonatal resuscitation.

Initial Resuscitation at Delivery and Short Term Neonatal Outcomes in Very-Low-Birth-Weight Infants

Survival of very-low-birth-weight infants (VLBWI) depends on professional perinatal management that begins at delivery. Korean Neonatal Network data on neonatal resuscitation management and initial care of VLBWI of less than 33 weeks gestation born from January 2013 to June 2014 were reviewed to investigate the current practice of neonatal resuscitation in Korea. Antenatal data, perinatal data, and short-term morbidities were analyzed. Out of 2,132 neonates, 91.7% needed resuscitation at birth, chest compression was performed on only 104 infants (5.4%) and epinephrine was administered to 80 infants (4.1%). Infants who received cardiac compression and/or epinephrine administration at birth (DR-CPR) were significantly more acidotic (P < 0.001) and hypothermic (P < 0.001) than those who only needed positive pressure ventilation (PPV). On logistic regression, DR-CPR resulted in greater early mortality of less than 7 days (OR, 5.64; 95% CI 3.25-9.77) increased intraventricular hemorrhage ≥ grade 3 (OR, 2.71; 95% CI 1.57-4.68), periventricular leukomalacia (OR, 2.94; 95% CI 1.72-5.01), and necrotizing enterocolitis (OR, 2.12; 95% CI 1.15-3.91) compared with those infants who needed only PPV. Meticulous and aggressive management of infants who needed DR-CPR at birth and quality improvement of the delivery room management will result in reduced morbidities and early death for the vulnerable VLBWI.

Outcomes of extremely preterm infants after delivery room cardiopulmonary resuscitation in a population-based cohort

OBJECTIVE

To describe the relationship of delivery room cardiopulmonary resuscitation (DR-CPR) to short-term outcomes of extremely preterm infants.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a cohort study of 22 to 27+6/7 weeks gestational age (GA) infants during 2005 to 2011. DR-CPR was defined as chest compressions and/or epinephrine administration. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) associated with DR-CPR; analysis was stratified by GA.

RESULT

Of the 13 758 infants, 856 (6.2%) received DR-CPR. Infants 22 to 23+6/7 weeks receiving DR-CPR had similar outcomes to non-recipients. Infants 24 to 25+6/7 weeks receiving DR-CPR had more severe intraventricular hemorrhage (OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.07, 1.72). Infants 26 to 27+6/7 weeks receiving DR-CPR were more likely to die (OR 1.81, 95% CI 1.30, 2.51) and have intraventricular hemorrhage (OR 2.10, 95% CI 1.56, 2.82). Adjusted hospital DR-CPR rates varied widely (median 5.7%).

CONCLUSION

Premature infants receiving DR-CPR had worse outcomes. Mortality and morbidity varied by GA.