Incidence of intraventricular hemorrhage and post hemorrhagic hydrocephalus in preterm infants

Negar Sajjadian1, Hossein Fakhrai, Ramin Jahadi

  • 1Department of Neonatology, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. NSajjadian@ yahoo.com

Acta Medica Iranica
|February 1, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Germinal matrix-intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) affects premature infants, often leading to hydrocephalus. Early brain sonography can detect IVH and hydrocephalus, aiding in management and potentially preventing complications.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Neurology
  • Pediatric Radiology
  • Critical Care Medicine

Background:

  • Germinal matrix-intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is a common intracranial hemorrhage in premature infants.
  • IVH can lead to serious complications, including hydrocephalus.
  • Brain sonography is the primary diagnostic tool for IVH and hydrocephalus.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the incidence of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) and post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus in premature neonates.
  • To evaluate the effectiveness of brain sonography in detecting these conditions.
  • To explore the relationship between IVH severity and hydrocephalus development.

Main Methods:

  • Brain sonography was performed on premature neonates (birth weight ≤1500 g, gestational age ≤37 weeks) within the first week of life.
  • Serial brain sonography was conducted weekly for neonates with confirmed IVH to monitor for hydrocephalus.
  • The study population included 57 neonates admitted to Mofid Hospital NICU over one year.

Main Results:

  • Intraventricular-germinal matrix hemorrhage (IVH) was detected in 64.4% of the neonates studied.
  • Hydrocephalus was identified in 20% of patients with IVH.
  • A direct correlation was observed between the severity of IVH and the incidence of hydrocephalus.

Conclusions:

  • The incidence of IVH in this study population was higher compared to other regions.
  • Controlling risk factors for IVH may help in preventing post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus.
  • Early detection and monitoring using brain sonography are crucial for managing IVH and hydrocephalus in premature infants.

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