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Pneumopericardium in very low birth weight infants

B Hook1, M Hack, S Morrison

  • 1Case Western Reserve University, Rainbow Babies and Childrens Hospital, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.

Journal of Perinatology : Official Journal of the California Perinatal Association
|January 1, 1995
PubMed

Insights

Pneumopericardium (PPC) is rare in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants but has high mortality. Early detection in VLBW infants with worsening oxygenation is crucial for improved outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatology
  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Critical Care Medicine

Background:

  • Pneumopericardium (PPC) is a rare but serious condition in neonates.
  • Very low birth weight (VLBW) infants are particularly vulnerable to cardiorespiratory complications.
  • Understanding the incidence and outcomes of PPC in VLBW infants is critical for clinical management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the incidence of pneumopericardium in very low birth weight infants.
  • To identify neonatal correlates associated with pneumopericardium.
  • To describe the outcomes and neurodevelopmental status of VLBW infants with pneumopericardium.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective comparison of VLBW infants with PPC to a cohort of ventilated VLBW infants.
  • Analysis of incidence rates, birth weight, gestational age, sex, and survival rates.
  • Assessment of oxygenation index and neurodevelopmental outcomes at 20 months.

Main Results:

  • PPC occurred in 2% of VLBW infants and 3.5% of ventilated VLBW infants.
  • Male infants had a higher incidence of PPC.
  • Survival rate for VLBW infants with PPC was 17%, significantly lower than the control group (60%).
  • Survivors with PPC had a higher incidence of neurodevelopmental impairment (50%) compared to controls (35%).

Conclusions:

  • Pneumopericardium is a rare condition in VLBW infants, associated with significant morbidity and mortality.
  • A rising oxygenation index preceding acute deterioration may indicate PPC in VLBW infants.
  • Prompt recognition and management are essential for improving outcomes in VLBW infants with pneumopericardium.

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