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Published on: August 25, 2014
Outcomes and milestone achievement differences for very low-birth-weight multiples compared with singleton infants
Sharon Kirkby1, Linda Genen, Wendy Turenne
1NICU Clinical Research and Data Management, Atlanta, Georgia 30339, USA. sharon.kirkby@alere.com
American Journal of Perinatology
|February 2, 2010
Summary
Very low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants from multiple gestations had similar morbidity and clinical milestone achievement compared to singletons. However, VLBW multiples experienced higher rates of apnea and patent ductus arteriosus.
Area of Science:
- Neonatalogy
- Perinatology
- Pediatric Research
Background:
- Multiple gestation pregnancies pose unique risks to infants.
- Very low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants require specialized care.
- Understanding comparative outcomes for VLBW singletons and multiples is crucial for clinical practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare complications and clinical milestone achievement in VLBW infants born from multiple gestations versus singletons.
- To identify specific areas where VLBW multiples may differ from singletons in neonatal care.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of a large neonatal database including infants <1500g birth weight.
- Comparison of singletons with twins and higher-order multiples on demographics, morbidities, and process milestones.
- Multivariable regression analyses to control for confounding variables.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in Apgar scores, SGA status, necrotizing enterocolitis, ROP, IVH, sepsis, BPD, or surgical needs.
- VLBW multiples had higher rates of apnea and patent ductus arteriosus compared to singletons.
- Milestone achievement was similar, except for full oral feedings; length of stay did not differ.
Conclusions:
- VLBW infants from multiple gestations experience comparable morbidity and most clinical milestone achievement to singletons.
- Specific morbidities like apnea and PDA are more common in VLBW multiples.
- Care strategies may need to consider these specific differences while recognizing overall similar outcomes.
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