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Published on: November 20, 2015
Intraventricular haemorrhage--timing of occurrence and relationship to perinatal events
Insights
Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) affects 26% of premature infants, particularly those under 1500g. Early detection within 8 hours is crucial, as respiratory distress significantly increases IVH risk and mortality.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal neurology
- Pediatric radiology
- Perinatal medicine
Background:
- Premature infants face significant risks, including intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH).
- Understanding the incidence and risk factors for IVH is critical for neonatal care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence, timing, and risk factors of IVH in premature infants.
- To assess the association between IVH and respiratory distress, delivery methods, and hypoxia.
Main Methods:
- Serial cranial ultrasound scans were performed on 150 infants born at or before 34 weeks gestation.
- Data collected included gestational age, birth weight, delivery method, respiratory status, and umbilical cord blood gas analysis.
Main Results:
- Overall IVH incidence was 26%, rising to 51% in infants <1500g.
- 50% of hemorrhages were detected within the first 8 hours of life.
- Respiratory distress was significantly associated with IVH; less mature infants experienced more severe hemorrhages.
Conclusions:
- IVH is common in very premature infants, with a high incidence in those under 1500g.
- Early detection and management are vital, as significant hemorrhages occur early.
- Respiratory distress is a key risk factor, while delivery method may offer some protection.
Abstract:
A total of 150 infants born at or before 34 weeks gestation had serial cranial ultrasound scans at age 8, 16, 24, 36, 48 h and 1 week. The overall incidence of IVH was 26%, but for infants less than 1500 g it was 51% and 50% of all haemorrhages were first detected in the first 8 h of life. Low-outlet forceps delivery and caesarean section offered some protection, but umbilical cord blood gas analysis did not support the hypothesis that hypoxia was causal. Respiratory distress and its complications were significantly associated with IVH. The more severe haemorrhages occurred in the less mature infants. The overall mortality in the study was 27% for the IVH group and 1.8% for the non-IVH group.
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