Normative blood pressure data for Indian neonates.

Area of Science:

• Neonatal physiology
• Pediatric cardiology
• Clinical research

Background:

• Establishing normative blood pressure (BP) values in neonates is crucial for identifying deviations from normal.
• Existing BP data in Indian neonates is limited, necessitating localized normative values.
• The oscillometric method offers a non-invasive approach to BP measurement in newborns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine normative blood pressure (BP) values in healthy Indian neonates.
• To develop BP percentile charts specific to the Indian neonatal population.
• To provide a reference for clinical decision-making in neonatal care.

Main Methods:

• A prospective observational study was conducted in a teaching hospital in Eastern India.
• 1617 hemodynamically stable neonates were included, excluding those with birth asphyxia, congenital anomalies, or maternal complications.
• Systolic BP, diastolic BP, and mean arterial pressure were measured using the oscillometric method on days 4, 7, and 14 postpartum.

Main Results:

• Normative blood pressure (BP) percentile charts (5th-99th) were developed for Indian neonates.
• BP values (SBP, DBP, MAP) demonstrated a consistent increase from day 4 to day 14.
• Neonatal BP was comparable between sexes but significantly lower in preterm infants compared to term infants.

Conclusions:

• The study provides essential normative neonatal BP data and percentile charts for the Indian population.
• These charts are valuable tools for clinical assessment and management of sick newborns.
• The findings contribute to improved diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning for neonatal hypertension and hypotension.