Comparison of the outcome of extremely-low-birth-weight infants between two periods

A comparison was made of the outcome of 73 neonates born with their birth weight of 500-999 gm in National Taiwan University Hospital during the period between January 1, 1993 and December 31, 1996 (Period II), with the outcome of 21 such neonates born between April 1, 1988 and October 31, 1992 (Period I). Exclusion criteria included parental refusal for resuscitation, and major anomalies. Data were collected via a predetermined record sheet. The incidences of the extremely-low-birth-weight infants were 23/10,173 (0.23%) and 81/13,835 (0.59%) in Periods I and II, respectively. Early neonatal mortality rate was significant decreased in Period II (43% versus 14%). The limit of viability was improved from gestational age of 26 weeks or 700 gm to gestational age of 24 weeks or 600 gm. The incidence of neonatal morbidity (80% versus 50%) and total survival rate (48% versus 60%) have not changed significantly as seen in this limited number of cases. This study concluded that, with the introduction of exogenous surfactant and modern neonatal care, early neonatal survival rate and the limit of viability were improved.