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BiliBlanket phototherapy system versus conventional phototherapy: a randomized controlled trial in preterm infants
S A Costello1, J Nyikal, V Y Yu
1Department of Paediatrics, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
Insights
The BiliBlanket fiberoptic pad is as effective as standard phototherapy for treating jaundice in preterm infants. This innovative treatment was well-received by healthcare providers and parents.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Pediatric Phototherapy
- Neonatal Jaundice Management
Background:
- Neonatal jaundice is a common condition in preterm infants.
- Standard phototherapy is the primary treatment for hyperbilirubinemia.
- Newer technologies aim to improve phototherapy efficacy and safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of the BiliBlanket fiberoptic pad with conventional overhead fluorescent phototherapy units.
- To evaluate the BiliBlanket's efficacy in treating jaundice in preterm infants.
- To assess the acceptance of the BiliBlanket by healthcare staff and parents.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial was conducted on preterm infants (800-2500 g).
- Infants received either conventional phototherapy or BiliBlanket treatment under strict criteria.
- Serum bilirubin levels were monitored at regular intervals.
Main Results:
- The study included 24 infants in the conventional group and 20 in the BiliBlanket group.
- The mean duration of phototherapy was comparable: 44 hours for conventional vs. 42 hours for BiliBlanket.
- No significant difference in treatment duration was observed.
Conclusions:
- The BiliBlanket is an effective alternative to conventional phototherapy for preterm infants with jaundice.
- The BiliBlanket demonstrated comparable efficacy to standard treatment methods.
- Both nursing staff and parents reported positive acceptance of the BiliBlanket device.
Objective:
This study compares the use of standard overhead fluorescent phototherapy units with the BiliBlanket a woven fibreoptic pad which delivers high intensity light with no ultraviolet or infrared irradiation in the treatment of jaundice in preterm infants.
Methodology:
We chose to study infants between 800 and 2500 g, with strict criteria for commencing and ceasing phototherapy. Serum bilirubin levels were followed at 12-24 h intervals until 24 h after cessation of phototherapy. Infants were allocated at random to receive either conventional phototherapy or the BiliBlanket.
Results:
There were 24 infants in the conventional group and 20 in the BiliBlanket group. Mean duration of phototherapy was compared and was 44 h for the conventional group versus 42 h for the BiliBlanket group.
Conclusions:
We have shown that the BiliBlanket is as effective as conventional phototherapy and was well accepted by nursing staff and parents.