Preterm birth: a cost benefit analysis

The price of neonatal intensive care outcomes - in-hospital costs of morbidities related to preterm birth

BACKGROUND

Neonatal care for preterm babies is prolonged and expensive. Our aim was to analyze and report costs associated with common preterm diagnoses during NICU stay.

METHODS

We analyzed data from the Ontario healthcare data service. Diagnoses were collated by discharge ICD codes, and categorized by gestational age. We calculated typical non parametric statistics, and for each diagnosis we calculated median shifts and generalized linear mode.

RESULTS

We included data on 12,660 infants between 23 and 30 weeks gestation in 2005-2017. Calculated cost increment with diagnosis were: Intestinal obstruction: $94,738.08 (95%CI: $70,093.3, $117,294.2), Ventriculoperitoneal shunt: $86,456.60 (95%CI: $60,773.7, $111,552.2), Chronic Lung Disease $77,497.70 (95%CI: $74,937.2, $80,012.8), Intestinal perforation $57,997.15 (95%CI:$45,324.7, $70,652.6), Retinopathy of Prematurity: $55,761.80 (95%CI: $53,916.2, $57,620.1), Patent Ductus Arteriosus $53,453.70 (95%CI: $51,206.9, $55692.7, Post-haemorrhagic ventriculomegaly $41,822.50 (95%CI: $34,590.4, $48,872.4), Necrotizing Enterocolitis $39,785 (95%CI: $35,728.9, $43,879), Meningitis $38,871.85 (95%CI: $25,272.7, $52,224.4), Late onset sepsis $32,954.20 (95%CI: $30,403.7, 35.515), Feeding difficulties $24,820.90 (95%CI: $22,553.3, $27,064.7), Pneumonia $23,781.70 (95%CI: $18,623.8, $28,881.6), Grade >2 Intraventricular Haemorrhage $14,777.38 (95%CI: $9,821.7, $20,085.2). Adjusted generalized linear model of diagnoses as coefficients for cost confirmed significance and robustness of the model.

CONCLUSION

Cost of care for preterm infant is expensive, and significantly increases with prematurity complication. Interventions to reduce those complications may enable resource allocation and better understanding of the needs of the neonatal health services.

Cost of neonatal intensive care for extremely preterm infants in Canada

BACKGROUND

Neonatal intensive care is expensive and prolonged. Extremely preterm infants are routinely supported. The costs for this practice at the age of borderline viability are of interest to clinicians and policymakers.

METHODS

We analyzed data from the Canadian national administrative database on total cost and length of hospital care from a public payor perspective for 23-28-week premature infants from 2011 to 2015. We also compared total and daily costs for 23-25-week newborns. Each comparison evaluated the total cohort and infants who lived more than 3 days. We used non-parametric tests, correlation tests, and generalized linear models for cost difference analysis, adjusting for survival, length of stay, and year.

RESULTS

We analyzed 6,932 infants' cost records. For all infants, median length of hospital stay was 41 days (IQR, 1-77 days). For infants who survived the first 3 days, median length of stay was 61 days (IQR, 34-90 days). The median total cost was $66,669 (IQR, $4,920-$125,550). For infants who survived the first 3 days, median total cost was $91,137 (IQR, $56,596-$188,757). For infants who survived the first 3 days, median total costs were $147,835 (IQR, $44,711-$233,847) for 23-week infants, $154,736 (IQR, $61,160-$248,290) for 24-week infants, and $130,317 (IQR, $79,737-$229,058) for 25-week infants. These amounts did not differ (P>0.7).

CONCLUSIONS

Total and daily costs of neonatal intensive care are high. Total cost was not different between surviving 23-25-week infants. These findings highlight the need for a funding strategy for the routine support of these fragile infants.

Regional variation in cost of neonatal intensive care for extremely preterm infants

Background

Regional variation in cost of neonatal intensive care for extremely preterm infant is not documented. We sought to evaluate regional variation that may lead to benchmarking and cost saving.

Methods

An analysis of a Canadian national costing data from the payor perspective. We included all liveborn 23–28-week preterm infants in 2011–2015. We calculated variation in costs between provinces using non-parametric tests and a generalized linear model to evaluate cost variation after adjustment for gestational age, survival, and length of stay.

Results

We analysed 6932 infant records. The median total cost for all infants was $66,668 (Inter-Quartile Range (IQR): $4920–$125,551). Medians for the regions varied more than two-fold and ranged from $48,144 in Ontario to $122,526 in Saskatchewan. Median cost for infants who survived the first 3 days of life was $91,000 (IQR: $56,500–$188,757). Median daily cost for all infants was $1940 (IQR: $1518–$2619). Regional variation was significant after adjusting for survival more than 3 days, length of stay, gestational age, and year (pseudo-R² = 0.9, p < 0.01). Applying the model on the second lowest-cost region to the rest of the regions resulted in a total savings of $71,768,361(95%CI: $65,527,634–$81,129,451) over the 5-year period ($14,353,672 annually), or over 11% savings for the total program cost of $643,837,303 over the study period.

Conclusion

Costs of neonatal intensive care are high. There is large regional variation that persists after adjustment for length of stay and survival. Our results can be used for benchmarking and as a target for focused cost optimization, savings, and investment in healthcare.

Sustained low-dose prophylactic early erythropoietin for improvement of neurological outcomes in preterm infants:A systematic review and meta-analysis

The aim of this meta-analysis was conducted to assess the effects of different doses of prophylactic rhEPO on neurodevelopmental outcomes and provide reference for rational drug use. The primary outcome was the number of infants with a Mental Developmental Index (MDI) <70 on the Bayley Scales of Infant Development. Five RCTs, comprising 2282 infants, were included in this meta-analysis. Overall, prophylactic rhEPO administration reduced the incidence of infants with an MDI <70, with an odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of 0.55 (0.38-0.79), P <0.05. The low-dose rhEPO subgroup was superior to the placebo subgroup, with an OR (95% CI) of 0.47 (0.25-0.87), P <0.05. However, high-dose rhEPO subgroup had no significant impact on MDI <70 in infants <28 weeks' gestational age. The definitions of the secondary outcome showed that there was no significant effect of rhEPO on cerebral palsy. For neonatal complications, although four studies showed that there were no differences in the pooled results of BPD and ICH events between rhEPO treatment and placebo, the ICH events were significantly lower in the low-dose rhEPO (OR 0.36; 95% CI 0.23-0.59). In addition, in the pooled results of NEC and ROP events, there were significant differences between the two groups (OR 0.63; 95% CI 0.43-0.93) (OR 0.80; 95% CI 0.65-0.98). And the NEC events were significantly lower in the low-dose rhEPO (OR 0.45; 95% CI 0.27-0.73). Sustained low-dose prophylactic early erythropoietin might be more superior than high-dose for improvement of neurological outcomes and several neonatal complications in preterm infants.

Elevated supine midline head position for prevention of intraventricular hemorrhage in VLBW and ELBW infants: a retrospective multicenter study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of elevated supine midline head position on intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) in very-low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants.

STUDY DESIGN

We reviewed data from four Level III/IV units. Two of these units (mid-line group) cared for infants in midline position and the other two (routine care group) provided routine care. We compared incidence of any and severe IVH in two groups using multivariate logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS

Of 2201 VLBW infants, 1041 were extremely-low-birth-weight (ELBW). Odds of any IVH were not different either for VLBW or ELBW infants. Odds of severe IVH were higher for VLBW infants in mid-line group (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.007-2.02; p value 0.046) but not for ELBW infants (OR 0.9, 95% CI 0.6-1.4; p value 0.73).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of any IVH was similar in the two groups but the incidence of severe IVH was higher in VLBW infants in mid-line group.

A Randomized Trial of Erythropoietin for Neuroprotection in Preterm Infants

BACKGROUND

High-dose erythropoietin has been shown to have a neuroprotective effect in preclinical models of neonatal brain injury, and phase 2 trials have suggested possible efficacy; however, the benefits and safety of this therapy in extremely preterm infants have not been established.

METHODS

In this multicenter, randomized, double-blind trial of high-dose erythropoietin, we assigned 941 infants who were born at 24 weeks 0 days to 27 weeks 6 days of gestation to receive erythropoietin or placebo within 24 hours after birth. Erythropoietin was administered intravenously at a dose of 1000 U per kilogram of body weight every 48 hours for a total of six doses, followed by a maintenance dose of 400 U per kilogram three times per week by subcutaneous injection through 32 completed weeks of postmenstrual age. Placebo was administered as intravenous saline followed by sham injections. The primary outcome was death or severe neurodevelopmental impairment at 22 to 26 months of postmenstrual age. Severe neurodevelopmental impairment was defined as severe cerebral palsy or a composite motor or composite cognitive score of less than 70 (which corresponds to 2 SD below the mean, with higher scores indicating better performance) on the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, third edition.

RESULTS

A total of 741 infants were included in the per-protocol efficacy analysis: 376 received erythropoietin and 365 received placebo. There was no significant difference between the erythropoietin group and the placebo group in the incidence of death or severe neurodevelopmental impairment at 2 years of age (97 children [26%] vs. 94 children [26%]; relative risk, 1.03; 95% confidence interval, 0.81 to 1.32; P = 0.80). There were no significant differences between the groups in the rates of retinopathy of prematurity, intracranial hemorrhage, sepsis, necrotizing enterocolitis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, or death or in the frequency of serious adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

High-dose erythropoietin treatment administered to extremely preterm infants from 24 hours after birth through 32 weeks of postmenstrual age did not result in a lower risk of severe neurodevelopmental impairment or death at 2 years of age. (Funded by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke; PENUT ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01378273.).

Economic assessment of neonatal intensive care

Most of the studies on the costing of neonatal intensive care has concentrated on the costs associated with preterm infants which takes up more than half of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) costs. The focus has been on determining the cost-effectiveness of extreme preterm infants and those at threshold of viability. While the costs of care have an inverse relationship with gestational age (GA) and the lifetime medical costs of the extreme preterm can be as high as $450,000, the total NICU expenditure are skewed towards the care of moderate and late preterm infants who form the main bulk of patients. Neonatal intensive care, has been found to be very cost-effective at $1,000 per term infant per QALY and $9,100 for extreme preterm survivor per QALY. For low and LMIC, where NICU resources are limited, the costs of NICU care is lower largely due to a patient profile of more term and preterm of greater GAs and correspondingly less intensity of care. Public health measures, neonatal resuscitation training, empowerment of nurses to do resuscitation, increasing the accessibility to essential newborn care are recommended cheaper cost-effective measures to reduce neonatal mortality in countries with high neonatal mortality rate, whilst upgraded neonatal intensive care services are needed to further reduce neonatal mortality rate once below 15 per 1,000 livebirths. Economic evaluation of neonatal intensive care should also include post discharge costs which mainly fall on the health, social and educational sectors. Strategies to reduce neonatal intensive care costs could include more widespread implementation of cost-effective methods of improving neonatal outcome and reducing neonatal morbidities, including access to antenatal care, perinatal interventions to delay preterm delivery wherever feasible, improving maternal health status and practising cost saving and effective neonatal intensive care treatment.

Stability of early risk assessment for autism spectrum disorder in preterm infants

Stability and change in early autism spectrum disorder risk were examined in a cohort of 99 preterm infants (⩽34 weeks of gestation) using the Autism Observation Scale for Infants at 8 and 12 months and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule—Toddler Module at 18 months. A total of 21 infants were identified at risk by the Autism Observation Scale for Infants at 8 months, and 9 were identified at risk at 12 months, including 4 children who were not previously identified. At 18 months, eight children were identified at risk for autism spectrum disorder using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule—Toddler Module, only half of whom had been identified using the original Autism Observation Scale for Infants cutoffs. Results are discussed in relation to early trajectories of autism spectrum disorder risk among preterm infants as well as identifying social-communication deficiencies associated with the early preterm behavioral phenotype.

Functional magnetic resonance connectivity studies in infants born preterm: suggestions of proximate and long-lasting changes in language organization

Sophisticated neuroimaging strategies demonstrate alterations in functional connectivity at school age, adolescence, and young adulthood in individuals born preterm. Recent data suggest these alterations are present in the postnatal period prior to term-equivalent age in neonates born preterm. Likewise, functional organization increases across development, but the influence of preterm birth on this fundamental infrastructure is immediate and unchanging. This article briefly reviews the current methods of measuring functional connectivity throughout development in those born preterm, and the association of functional connectivity with language disorders. Taken together, these data suggest that the effects of preterm birth on the functional organization of language in the developing brain are both proximate and long-lasting.

Genes and environment in neonatal intraventricular hemorrhage

Emerging data suggest intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) of the preterm neonate is a complex disorder with contributions from both the environment and the genome. Environmental analyses suggest factors mediating both cerebral blood flow and angiogenesis contribute to IVH, while candidate gene studies report variants in angiogenesis, inflammation, and vascular pathways. Gene-by-environment interactions demonstrate the interaction between the environment and the genome, and a non-replicated genome-wide association study suggests that both environmental and genetic factors contribute to the risk for severe IVH in very low-birth weight preterm neonates.

ECLS for preemies: the artificial placenta

The high mortality and morbidity associated with respiratory failure among extremely low gestational age newborns (ELGANs) remains an unsolved problem. A logical strategy to avoid these complications would involve re-creating the intrauterine environment with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) instead of mechanical ventilation. Such a device, termed an artificial placenta, was first researched over 50 years ago. AP models vary, but all incorporate ECMO involving the umbilical vessels, lack of mechanical ventilation, and low partial pressure of oxygen to preserve fetal circulation. Current research has focused on low-volume pumpless arteriovenous circuits as well as pump-driven venovenous circuits.

Pathogenesis and prevention of intraventricular hemorrhage

Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is a major neurologic complication of prematurity. Pathogenesis of IVH is attributed to intrinsic fragility of germinal matrix vasculature and to the fluctuation in the cerebral blood flow. Germinal matrix exhibits rapid angiogenesis orchestrating formation of immature vessels. Prenatal glucocorticoid exposure remains the most effective means of preventing IVH. Therapies targeted to enhance the stability of the germinal matrix vasculature and minimize fluctuation in the cerebral blood flow might lead to more effective strategies in preventing IVH.

Structure-function relationships in pulmonary surfactant membranes: from biophysics to therapy

Pulmonary surfactant is an essential lipid-protein complex to maintain an operative respiratory surface at the mammalian lungs. It reduces surface tension at the alveolar air-liquid interface to stabilise the lungs against physical forces operating along the compression-expansion breathing cycles. At the same time, surfactant integrates elements establishing a primary barrier against the entry of pathogens. Lack or deficiencies of the surfactant system are associated with respiratory pathologies, which treatment often includes supplementation with exogenous materials. The present review summarises current models on the molecular mechanisms of surfactant function, with particular emphasis in its biophysical properties to stabilise the lungs and the molecular alterations connecting impaired surfactant with diseased organs. It also provides a perspective on the current surfactant-based strategies to treat respiratory pathologies. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Membrane Structure and Function: Relevance in the Cell's Physiology, Pathology and Therapy.

Neurodevelopmental outcomes of premature infants at a tertiary care center in Pakistan

The low gestational ages and morbidities of premature neonates in neonatal intensive care units exert a significant impact on neurodevelopmental outcomes. This longitudinal cohort study assessed the neurodevelopmental status of premature neonates after discharge from neonatal intensive care units in resource-limited countries such as Pakistan. Developmental assessment involved the Denver Development Screening Test II. One hundred and ten infants discharged from our neonatal intensive care unit completed follow-up at age 6 months. Overall developmental delay was evident in 32% of infants. Birth weight and gestational age exerted significant impacts on development. The mean gestational age of developmentally normal infants was 34 weeks, whereas that of delayed infants was 30.7 weeks (P < 0.01). The mean birth weight of developmentally normal infants was 2.17 kg vs 1.27 kg in delayed infants (P < 0.01). Neonates who developed complications such as respiratory distress syndrome, intraventricular hemorrhage, thrombocytopenia, hypoglycemia, hyponatremia, or hypothermia in neonatal intensive care units proved to be delayed at age 6 months (P < 0.05). Prematurity and its associated complications are linked to adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Cost-effectiveness of transdermal nitroglycerin use for preterm labor

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to determine the cost-effectiveness of using transdermal nitroglycerin (GTN) for cases of preterm labor.

METHODS

The study included 153 women with clinical preterm labor, who were randomly allocated to either a GTN or placebo arm. All randomized cases were included in the final economic analysis. Differences between the two arms in gestational age at delivery, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission, length of NICU stay, and NICU cost were assessed. Costs for non-NICU cases were calculated using Ottawa Hospital data through the Ontario Case Costing Initiative (OCCI). Cost-effectiveness and sensitivity analyses using a hospital perspective were both conducted.

RESULTS

In the 153 randomized cases, 55 babies were admitted to NICU (GTN = 24; placebo = 31). We found no significant differences between the two arms in gestational age at delivery, NICU admission rate (32.4% vs. 39.2%), NICU length of stay (42.7 days vs. 52.8 days), or NICU cost (CAN $34,306 vs. CAN $44,326). Overall, (based on all randomized cases) the cost-effectiveness analyses showed that the GTN arm was the dominant strategy, with both lower cost (CAN $13,397 vs. CAN $18,427) and higher NICU admission avoided rate (67.6% vs. 60.8%) compared to the placebo arm. This dominance persisted in all sensitivity analyses.

CONCLUSION

The use of GTN patch for preterm labor could reduce NICU costs, while improving important neonatal outcomes.

Microstructural and functional connectivity in the developing preterm brain

Prematurely born children are at increased risk for cognitive deficits, but the neurobiological basis of these findings remains poorly understood. Because variations in neural circuitry may influence performance on cognitive tasks, recent investigations have explored the impact of preterm birth on connectivity in the developing brain. Diffusion tensor imaging studies demonstrate widespread alterations in fractional anisotropy, a measure of axonal integrity and microstructural connectivity, throughout the developing preterm brain. Functional connectivity studies report that preterm neonates, children and adolescents exhibit alterations in both resting state and task-based connectivity when compared with term control subjects. Taken together, these data suggest that neurodevelopmental impairment following preterm birth may represent a disease of neural connectivity.

Anesthetic technique and postoperative outcome in preterm infants undergoing PDA closure

OBJECTIVE

To describe the various anesthetic techniques used for surgical closure of PDA in premature infants at the Montreal Children's Hospital and assess their impact on postoperative outcome.

STUDY DESIGN

The charts of all preterms who underwent PDA ligation during a 21-month period were reviewed for preoperative status, intraoperative anesthetic management and postoperative outcome. We determined the associations between independent variables and two postoperative outcome variables: unstable postoperative respiratory course (UPRC) and hypotension.

RESULT

The mean weight at surgery of the 33 infants was 1.031±0.29 kg. All infants, but one, received intraoperative opioids. Eight patients presented UPRC. Mean fentanyl doses were 5.3±2.6 mcg kg(-1) for patients with UPRC vs 22.6±16.6 mcg kg(-1) for patients without UPRC (P=0.004). Applying the receiver-operator characteristic curve (ROC), 10.5 mcg kg(-1) of fentanyl was established as the dose that discriminated and identified patients who experienced UPRC. The postnatal and postmenstrual age of the patient, birthweight, current weight, ventilator settings preoperatively, previous courses of indomethacin, sex and preoperative creatinine, were not correlated with the dose of fentanyl equivalent used. Logistic regression did not show a relationship between any of the previously mentioned factors and receiving a fentanyl equivalent of >10.5 mcg kg(-1). The only factor associated with the total fentanyl equivalent dose (as a continuous variable) or receiving <10.5 mcg kg(-1) (as a dichotomous variable) was the identity of the anesthetist involved, P<0.001.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that the use of at least 10.5 mcg kg(-1) of fentanyl equivalent as a component of the anesthetic regimen for surgical closure of a PDA in premature infants, avoids an unstable postoperative respiratory course.

[Costs for treatment of very-low-birth-weight infants]

BACKGROUND

The cost of treating premature infants is increasing due to use of advanced medical technology and rising labour costs. Few Norwegian studies have been published in the field. This study has assessed treatment costs for very-low-birth-weight infants in St. Olavs University Hospital.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Children born in 1997 or 2007 were studied retrospectively. Individual costs (diagnostics and treatment) were estimated from detailed analysis of each patient's daily medical record. General daily costs (salary, equipment etc.) for treatment levels 1 (growth and development), 2 (observation) and 3 (intensive treatment) were estimated from department and hospital budgets.

RESULTS

The total mean treatment cost from admission to discharge was 603,238 NOK per patient in 2007, an increase from 475,131 NOK in 1997. As more infants survived without serious complications in 2007, the cost of a surviving healthy infant was actually lower in 2007 (922,599 NOK) than in 1997 (1,135,035 NOK). DRG reimbursements cover the cost for treating children with a birth weight in the range 1000 - 1499 g, but not for those weighing < 1000 g.

INTERPRETATION

Very-low-birth-weight infants are probably the most expensive patient group treated in hospitals; the total cost in 2007 was (mean) 900,000 NOK.

Diazoxide promotes oligodendrocyte precursor cell proliferation and myelination

Background

Several clinical conditions are associated with white matter injury, including periventricular white matter injury (PWMI), which is a form of brain injury sustained by preterm infants. It has been suggested that white matter injury in this condition is due to altered oligodendrocyte (OL) development or death, resulting in OL loss and hypomyelination. At present drugs are not available that stimulate OL proliferation and promote myelination. Evidence suggests that depolarizing stimuli reduces OL proliferation and differentiation, whereas agents that hyperpolarize OLs stimulate OL proliferation and differentiation. Considering that the drug diazoxide activates K_ATP channels to hyperpolarize cells, we tested if this compound could influence OL proliferation and myelination.

Methodology/Findings

Studies were performed using rat oligodendrocyte precursor cell (OPC) cultures, cerebellar slice cultures, and an in vivo model of PWMI in which newborn mice were exposed to chronic sublethal hypoxia (10% O₂). We found that K_ATP channel components Kir 6.1 and 6.2 and SUR2 were expressed in oligodendrocytes. Additionally, diazoxide potently stimulated OPC proliferation, as did other K_ATP activators. Diazoxide also stimulated myelination in cerebellar slice cultures. We also found that diazoxide prevented hypomyelination and ventriculomegaly following chronic sublethal hypoxia.

Conclusions

These results identify KATP channel components in OLs and show that diazoxide can stimulate OL proliferation in vitro. Importantly we find that diazoxide can promote myelination in vivo and prevent hypoxia-induced PWMI.

Trajectory of metabolic derangement in infants with necrotizing enterocolitis should drive timing and technique of surgical intervention

BACKGROUND

Seven clinical metrics of metabolic derangement (MD7) have improved the timing of surgical intervention in infants with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). We compared surgical NEC outcomes based on MD7 at our center (unit S) with a similar center (unit B) that based its intervention on abdominal radiograph.

STUDY DESIGN

Premature infants undergoing surgical care for NEC were evaluated. MD7 included positive blood culture, acidosis, bandemia, hyponatremia, thrombocytopenia, hypotension, and neutropenia. Surgical recommendations were stratified as observation or intervention. Good outcomes included full enteric feeding by discharge and poor outcomes were death or dependence on parenteral nutrition. For unit S and unit B, the frequency, median, and mode of MD7 component per case were determined for observation and intervention. Mann-Whitney U test and Wilcoxon matched pairs were used to compare positive MD7 frequency for observation with intervention. Institutional mortality was compared and metabolic severity of unit cohorts was evaluated by incidence of MD7 in each.

RESULTS

From March 2005 to July 2008, forty-one infants at unit S underwent 62 surgical evaluations. Observation was elected in 38 (median 1 MD7 per case, mode 0). Operative intervention occurred in 24 (median 4 MD7 per case, mode 4). Proportional MD7 difference between observation and intervention was significant (p = 0.018, U = 6). From February 2007 to December 2008, sixty-five unit B infants received 81 evaluations, recommending 37 observations (median 2 MD7 per case, mode 2), and 44 interventions (median 3 MD7 per case, mode 3). MD7 proportions between observation and intervention were not significant (p = 0.318, U = 16). Poor outcomes rates for unit S and unit B infants were 24% and 66%, respectively (p = 0.0001). Severity of MD7 did not differ between institutions (p = 0.53, U = 19).

CONCLUSIONS

These data demonstrate variability in surgical approach to NEC. The MD7 panel describes the trajectory of metabolic derangement, defines more timely surgical intervention, and demonstrates that waiting for free air is too late.

Autism spectrum disorders in survivors of extreme prematurity

Recent studies in survivors of extreme prematurity point to an increased prevalence of a previously underrecognized atypical social-behavioral profile strongly suggestive of an autism spectrum disorder. Prospective studies that incorporate early autism screening and autism diagnostic testing are needed to better delineate the sensitivity and specificity of early signs of autism in ex-premature children. Advances in neonatal MRI techniques capable of quantitative structural and functional measurements will also provide important insights into the effects of prematurity itself, and prematurity-related brain injury on the genesis of autism spectrum disorders in this population. Available evidence linking prematurity and autism spectrum disorders is reviewed in this article.

Imaging biomarkers of outcome in the developing preterm brain

The neurodevelopmental disabilities of those who were born prematurely have been well described, yet the underlying alterations in brain development that lead to these changes remain poorly understood. Processes that are vulnerable to injury in the developing brain include maturation of oligodendrocyte precursors and genetically programmed changes in cortical connectivity; recent data have indicated that diffuse injury of the white matter accompanied by neuronal and axonal disruption is common in prematurely born infants. Recent advances in MRI include diffusion tensor imaging and sophisticated image analysis tools, such as functional connectivity, voxel-based morphometry, and mathematical morphology-based cortical folding strategies. These advanced techniques have shown that white matter structure is dependent on gestational age and have started to provide important information about the dynamic interactions between development, injury, and functional recovery in the preterm brain. Identification of early biomarkers for outcome could enable physicians and scientists to develop targeted pharmacological and behavioural therapies to restore functional connectivity.

Nonoral feeding practices for infants in the neonatal intensive care unit

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to delineate current practice for the selection of nonoral feeding routes in level III neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) across Canada.

SUBJECTS

All level III Canadian NICUs (n = 28).

DESIGN

A written questionnaire was developed specifically for gathering data in the NICU about the current method of selection of feeding tubes.

METHODS

We surveyed, by telephone, charge nurses at all level III NICUs to elucidate the current use of orogastric (OG) versus nasogastric (NG) route of tube for fullterm and preterm infants.

RESULTS

The results from this study indicate that 75% percent of NICUs in Canada primarily used NG tubes. Pediatric institutions were significantly more likely to use NG (>75% of the time) (P = .003). All of the centers (100%) using NG tubes used indwelling tubes. Only 18% of centers selected OG tubes primarily. Nonpediatric institutions were significantly more likely to use OG tubes (P = .001). Ten percent of NICUs reported using both NG and OG tubes equally. There was no difference indicated on selection of tube for preterm babies versus term babies. However, there was 100% agreement in the use of OG tubes in infants with structural anomalies of the nares or if the infants were on continuous positive airway pressure. Overall, decision regarding route of tube was made primarily according to physician preference and the natural history and experience within the NICU.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this survey indicate that there are no clear clinical guidelines currently in place to determine route of feeding tubes in NICUs across Canada. Physician preference or history of the institution appears to be the most important variable in determining tube selection. Given the high prevalence of acute and chronic feeding difficulties among NICU survivors, the choice of route of tube should be guided by specific evidence-based criteria.

Long-term sequelae of postnatal surfactant and corticosteroid therapies for BPD

OBJECTIVE

This retrospective analysis assessed the relationship between medical treatment (postnatal steroids, surfactant) received neonatally and outcomes at 3 and 8 years using a longitudinal sample of children with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD).

STUDY DESIGN

Four groups were formed retrospectively based on the type of neonatal medical treatment received: no drug intervention (n=37), surfactant only (n=29), postnatal steroids only (n=13) and combined surfactant and postnatal steroids (n=16). Groups were compared on neurological and medical outcomes.

RESULT

Combined postnatal steroids and surfactant treatment was associated with more days on supplemental oxygen than no intervention or surfactant only. Surfactant replacement therapy alone was not associated with adverse consequences; however, postnatal steroid exposure appeared to be related.

CONCLUSION

Although retrospective analyses make statements about causation impossible, the differential relationships of therapies with cognitive outcomes argues for careful monitoring of therapeutic agents with very low birth weight infants.

Positive screening for autism in ex-preterm infants: prevalence and risk factors

OBJECTIVE

The survival of very low birth weight infants has increased markedly in recent years. Unfortunately, the prevalence of significant and lifelong motor, cognitive, and behavioral dysfunction has remained a major problem confronting these children. The objective of this study was to perform screening tests for early autistic features in children with a history of very low birth weight and to identify risk factors associated with a positive screening result.

METHODS

We studied 91 ex-preterm infants < or = 1500 g at birth. Infants underwent conventional MRI studies at preterm and/or term-adjusted age. We collected pertinent demographic, prenatal, intrapartum, acute postnatal, and short-term outcome data for all infants. Follow-up assessments were performed at a mean age of 21.9 +/- 4.7 months, using the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale, and the Child Behavior Checklist.

RESULTS

Twenty-six percent of ex-preterm infants had a positive result on the autism screening tool. Abnormal scores correlated highly with internalizing behavioral problems on the Child Behavior Checklist and socialization and communication deficits on the Vineland Scales. Lower birth weight, gestational age, male gender, chorioamnionitis, acute intrapartum hemorrhage, illness severity on admission, and abnormal MRI studies were significantly associated with an abnormal autism screening score.

CONCLUSIONS

Early autistic behaviors seem to be an underrecognized feature of very low birth weight infants. The results from this study suggest that early screening for signs of autism may be warranted in this high-risk population followed by definitive autism testing in those with positive screening results.

Individualized developmental care for high risk newborns in the NICU: a practice guideline

The newborn infant in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is cared for with highly advanced medical technology, but the incidence of disability and neurodevelopmental problems among survivors remains high and problematic. Preterm birth disrupts the developmental progression of brain structures and affects development of the sensory systems. The Synactive Theory of Development provides a framework to conceptualize the organization of the neurobehavioral capabilities in the early development of the fetus, newborn and young infant. The infant's ability to regulate and control behavior emerges through continued interaction with the environment and is expressed through five systems: autonomic/physiology, motor, state, attention/interaction and self-regulation. In the healthy full term newborn the five subsystems are mature, integrated, synchronized and managed smoothly. The less mature, healthy or sick preterm newborn may be unable or partially able to manage environmental inputs, demonstrating over-reactive responses and poor tolerance from even minimal input. Loss of control and stress responses become frequent unless the environment and caregivers work to read the infants' messages and thresholds for sensitivity and adjust care and handling and the environment based on the infant's behavioral communications. The Newborn Individualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program (NIDCAP) is a comprehensive program which includes a behavioral observation methodology and creation of individual family centered developmental caregiving support of the infant's own developmental goals. The NIDCAP approach seeks to support the infant's stabilization and organization of the autonomic, motor, and state systems at each level of maturation, while minimizing stressful events.

[Factors related to respiratory complications in very low birth weight infants with respiratory distress syndrome]

INTRODUCTION

Very low birth weight (VLBW) infants, with a birth weight below 1500 g and a structurally immature lung, are at high risk for developing bronchopulmonary dysplasia. This risk is even higher if respiratory distress syndrome is present. Other acute lung diseases, such as air leak and pulmonary hemorrhage, can also be present. The aim of this study was to analyze the statistical relevance of several neonatal factors in the development of pulmonary complications in a sample of VLBW infants with respiratory distress syndrome.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 209 VLBW infants with respiratory distress syndrome were studied. The variables analyzed were delivery date, respiratory distress syndrome grade, sex, birth weight, gestational age, referral (from within the hospital or elsewhere), prenatal corticosteroid administration, type of gestation, type of delivery, amniorrhexis time, Apgar test at 1 and 5 minutes, surfactant administration, hours of life at which the first dose of surfactant was administered, and early sepsis. A multiple logistic regression analysis was developed using Hosmer-Lemeshow methodology.

RESULTS

In the multivariate analysis, air leak was related to respiratory distress syndrome grade and surfactant administration. Pulmonary hemorrhage was related to lower birth weight and absence of prenatal corticosteroid administration. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia was related to single pregnancies, absence of prenatal corticosteroid administration, lower birth weight, lower Apgar score at 1 minute, and higher respiratory distress syndrome grade.

CONCLUSIONS

Respiratory morbidity in VLBW infants with respiratory distress syndrome could be influenced by several interrelated intrinsic and extrinsic variables.