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Time of closure of ductus venosus in term and preterm neonates
1Department of Pediatrics, Kagawa Medical University, 1750-1, Miki, Kitagun, Kagawa 761-0793, Japan.
Aim:
To investigate the relation between gestational age, birth weight, and antenatal corticosteroid administration and the time of ductus venosus closure.
Methods:
Ninety eight neonates of 30-41 weeks gestational age were studied by daily ultrasonography until ductus venosus closure.
Results:
In neonates of 30-33 weeks gestational age, the ductus venosus closed at 6.0 (2.4)days (mean (SD)); in those of 34-36 weeks gestational age, it closed at 6.1 (2.8) days; and in those of 37-41 weeks gestational age, it closed at 4.2 (2.1) days. The effect of antenatal administration of corticosteroids on the time of closure was also investigated in neonates of 30-34 weeks gestational age. Closure occurred by 5.5 (2.4) days in the group given corticosteroids compared with 7.5 (2.1) days in the remainder.
Conclusions:
The ductus venosus closed sooner after birth in neonates of greater gestational age or higher birth weight. Antenatal corticosteroid administration had a significant effect in promoting closure.
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