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Fused eyelids in premature infants
K Duerksen1, W E Barlow, O G Stasior
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Arizona Health Sciences Center, Tucson.
Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|December 1, 1994
Summary
Infants born with fused eyelids have a lower survival rate and delayed eyelid opening. Gestational age is the key factor influencing eyelid status, survival, and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in extremely premature newborns.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Ophthalmology
- Perinatology
Background:
- Extremely premature infants often present with various health challenges.
- Eyelid development and opening are critical indicators in neonatal care.
- The incidence and implications of fused eyelids at birth require further characterization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of fused eyelids in extremely premature newborns.
- To identify the timing of postbirth eyelid opening.
- To assess the survival rates of infants with fused versus open eyelids.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 161 extremely premature infants.
- Logistic regression analysis for ophthalmic outcomes and predictors.
- Cox regression analysis for time to eyelid opening in infants with fused eyelids.
Main Results:
- The critical gestational age for eyelid opening is 25.5–26.5 weeks.
- Infants born with fused eyelids opened them an average of 5.5 days postbirth.
- Survival to discharge was 52% for infants with fused eyelids versus 83% for those with open eyelids.
- Gestational age was the primary predictor for eyelid status, survival, and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).
Conclusions:
- Fused eyelids at birth are associated with significantly lower survival rates in extremely premature infants.
- Gestational age is the most critical factor influencing ophthalmic outcomes and survival in this population.
- Early identification and management of eyelid status may be important for extremely premature neonates.