Gastrointestinal complications associated with ibuprofen therapy for patent ductus arteriosus

R Rao1, K Bryowsky, J Mao

  • 1Division of Newborn Medicine, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO 63110, USA. rao_r@kids.wustl.edu

Insights

Preterm infants treated with ibuprofen for patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) face risks of spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP). Lower gestational age and earlier treatment increase this risk, highlighting the need for careful monitoring.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal medicine
  • Pediatric pharmacology
  • Gastrointestinal surgery

Background:

  • Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is common in preterm infants.
  • Ibuprofen is a common treatment for PDA.
  • Intestinal complications, including spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP), are potential risks.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate intestinal complications, specifically SIP, in preterm infants treated with ibuprofen for PDA.
  • To identify risk factors associated with SIP in this population.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of data from preterm infants treated with ibuprofen for PDA.
  • Univariate analyses using chi-squared and Fischer's exact tests.
  • Multivariate logistic regression modeling to identify risk factors for SIP.

Main Results:

  • Nine out of 102 infants (8.8%) developed SIP.
  • Infants with SIP had significantly lower gestational age (25.2 vs 27.6 weeks) and longer length of stay.
  • Earlier initiation of ibuprofen treatment (3.3 vs 5.8 days) was associated with increased SIP risk.
  • Lower gestational age and earlier ibuprofen initiation were identified as risk factors for SIP.

Conclusions:

  • Preterm infants with lower gestational age are at higher risk of SIP when treated early with ibuprofen for PDA.
  • Gestational age and timing of ibuprofen initiation are critical factors in managing PDA treatment risks.
Abstract

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