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Cavolo A, Vears DF, Naulaers G, de Casterlé BD, Gillam L, Gastmans C. Doctor-Parent Disagreement for Preterm Infants Born in the Grey Zone: Do Ethical Frameworks Help? JOURNAL OF BIOETHICAL INQUIRY 2024:10.1007/s11673-024-10354-y. [PMID: 38969916 DOI: 10.1007/s11673-024-10354-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine i) how ethical frameworks can be used in concrete cases of parent-doctors' disagreements for extremely preterm infants born in the grey zone to guide such difficult decision-making; and ii) what challenges stakeholders may encounter in using these frameworks. DESIGN We did a case analysis of a concrete case of parent-doctor disagreement in the grey zone using two ethical frameworks: the best interest standard and the zone of parental discretion. RESULTS Both ethical frameworks entailed similar advantages and challenges. They have the potential 1) to facilitate decision-making because they follow a structured method; 2) to clarify the situation because all relevant ethical issues are explored; and 3) to facilitate reaching an agreement because all parties can explain their views. We identified three main challenges. First, how to objectively evaluate the risk of severe disability. Second, parents' interests should be considered but it is not clear to what extent. Third, this is a value-laden situation and different people have different values, meaning that the frameworks are at least partially subjective. CONCLUSIONS These challenges do not mean that the ethical frameworks are faulty; rather, they reflect the complexity and the sensitivity of cases in the grey zone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Cavolo
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 9, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Danya F Vears
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gunnar Naulaers
- Pregnancy, Fetus and Newborn, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Lynn Gillam
- Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chris Gastmans
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Koc E, Unal S, Vural M. Periviable Birth: Between Ethical and Legal Frameworks. J Pediatr 2024:114143. [PMID: 38876154 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2024.114143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Esin Koc
- Faculty of Medicine, Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey; European Pediatric Association, Union of National European Pediatric Societies and Associations, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Sezin Unal
- Faculty of Medicine, Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Baskent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Vural
- Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Istanbul University- Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
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Kocakabak C, van den Hoogen A, Rothfus M, Campbell-Yeo M, Kostenzer J, Axelin A, Schofield P, Latour JM. Identifying outcomes and outcome measures in neonatal family-centered care trials: a systematic review. Pediatr Res 2024:10.1038/s41390-024-03293-2. [PMID: 38849484 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-024-03293-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A wide range of outcomes for infants and parents has been reported in clinical trials testing FCC interventions. This systematic review aimed to identify outcomes, outcome measures, and time-points reported in experimental studies testing FCC interventions in neonatal care units. METHODS This review included experimental studies investigating FCC interventions in neonatal settings. Database searches were conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane, PsycINFO, Scopus, JBI, Lilacs, and SciELO, completed in December 2022 and updated in November 2023. Critical appraisal was performed using the JBI checklist for randomized controlled trials, and a narrative synthesis process was used. Outcomes were categorized into the Comet Taxonomy core areas. RESULTS The search identified 8787 papers; 42 studies were included in the analysis. Totally, 60 outcomes were identified: 42 infant and 18 parents' outcomes. Outcomes were clustered into 12 domains for infants and five domains for parents and measured by 97 outcome measures. The included studies reported 25 and 27 different time-points for infants and parents, respectively. CONCLUSION This review of studies testing FCC interventions identified heterogeneity and inconsistency of outcomes, outcome measures, and time-points measuring the outcomes. Developing a core outcome set for FCC studies is warranted to benchmark the evidence and identify best-practices. IMPACT This systematic review identified inconsistency of outcomes, outcome measures, and time-points reported in quantitative studies testing family-centered care interventions in neonatal care settings. The lack of standardized outcomes and outcome measures reported in clinical trials makes it difficult to synthesize data to provide conclusive recommendations. This systematic review will contribute to the development of a core outcome set for research testing family-centered care interventions in neonatal care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cansel Kocakabak
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK.
| | - Agnes van den Hoogen
- Department Women and Baby, Neonatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Melissa Rothfus
- Dalhousie Libraries, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Marsha Campbell-Yeo
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Johanna Kostenzer
- European Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants, Munich, Germany
| | - Anna Axelin
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Patricia Schofield
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Jos M Latour
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
- Department of Nursing, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Curtin School of Nursing, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
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Gadekar VP, Damaraju N, Xavier A, Thakur SB, Vijayram R, Desiraju BK, Misra S, Wadhwa N, Khurana A, Rathore S, Abraham A, Rengaswamy R, Benjamin S, Cherian AG, Bhatnagar S, Thiruvengadam R, Sinha H. Development and external validation of Indian population-specific Garbhini-GA2 model for estimating gestational age in second and third trimesters. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. SOUTHEAST ASIA 2024; 25:100362. [PMID: 39021476 PMCID: PMC467080 DOI: 10.1016/j.lansea.2024.100362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Background A large proportion of pregnant women in lower and middle-income countries (LMIC) seek their first antenatal care after 14 weeks of gestation. While the last menstrual period (LMP) is still the most prevalent method of determining gestational age (GA), ultrasound-based foetal biometry is considered more accurate in the second and third trimesters. In LMIC settings, the Hadlock formula, originally developed using data from a small Caucasian population, is widely used for estimating GA and foetal weight worldwide as the pre-programmed formula in ultrasound machines. This approach can lead to inaccuracies when estimating GA in a diverse population. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a population-specific model for estimating GA in the late trimesters that was as accurate as the GA estimation in the first trimester, using data from GARBH-Ini, a pregnancy cohort in a North Indian district hospital, and subsequently validate the model in an independent cohort in South India. Methods Data obtained by longitudinal ultrasonography across all trimesters of pregnancy was used to develop and validate GA models for the second and third trimesters. The gold standard for GA estimation in the first trimester was determined using ultrasonography. The Garbhini-GA2, a polynomial regression model, was developed using the genetic algorithm-based method, showcasing the best performance among the models considered. This model incorporated three of the five routinely measured ultrasonographic parameters during the second and third trimesters. To assess its performance, the Garbhini-GA2 model was compared against the Hadlock and INTERGROWTH-21st models using both the TEST set (N = 1493) from the GARBH-Ini cohort and an independent VALIDATION dataset (N = 948) from the Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore cohort. Evaluation metrics, including root-mean-squared error, bias, and preterm birth (PTB) rates, were utilised to comprehensively assess the model's accuracy and reliability. Findings With first trimester GA dating as the baseline, Garbhini-GA2 reduced the GA estimation median error by more than three times compared to the Hadlock formula. Further, the PTB rate estimated using Garbhini-GA2 was more accurate when compared to the INTERGROWTH-21st and Hadlock formulae, which overestimated the rate by 22.47% and 58.91%, respectively. Interpretation The Garbhini-GA2 is the first late-trimester GA estimation model to be developed and validated using Indian population data. Its higher accuracy in GA estimation, comparable to GA estimation in the first trimester and PTB classification, underscores the significance of deploying population-specific GA formulae to enhance antenatal care. Funding The GARBH-Ini cohort study was funded by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India (BT/PR9983/MED/97/194/2013). The ultrasound repository was partly supported by the Grand Challenges India-All Children Thriving Program, Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council, Department of Biotechnology, Government of India (BIRAC/GCI/0115/03/14-ACT). The research reported in this publication was made possible by a grant (BT/kiData0394/06/18) from the Grand Challenges India at Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), an operating division jointly supported by DBT-BMGF-BIRAC. The external validation study at CMC Vellore was partly supported by a grant (BT/kiData0394/06/18) from the Grand Challenges India at Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), an operating division jointly supported by DBT-BMGF-BIRAC and by Exploratory Research Grant (SB/20-21/0602/BT/RBCX/008481) from Robert Bosch Centre for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (RBCDSAI), IIT Madras. An alum endowment from Prakash Arunachalam (BIO/18-19/304/ALUM/KARH) partly funded this study at the Centre for Integrative Biology and Systems Medicine, IIT Madras.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veerendra P. Gadekar
- Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
- Centre for Integrative Biology and Systems medicinE, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
- Robert Bosch Centre for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
| | - Nikhita Damaraju
- Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
- Centre for Integrative Biology and Systems medicinE, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
| | - Ashley Xavier
- Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
- Centre for Integrative Biology and Systems medicinE, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
| | - Shambo Basu Thakur
- Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
- Centre for Integrative Biology and Systems medicinE, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
| | - Ramya Vijayram
- Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
- Centre for Integrative Biology and Systems medicinE, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
| | - Bapu Koundinya Desiraju
- Maternal and Child Health Program, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, India
| | - Sumit Misra
- Maternal and Child Health Program, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, India
| | - Nitya Wadhwa
- Maternal and Child Health Program, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, India
| | - Ashok Khurana
- The Ultrasound Lab, Defence Colony, New Delhi, India
| | - Swati Rathore
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - Anuja Abraham
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - Raghunathan Rengaswamy
- Centre for Integrative Biology and Systems medicinE, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
- Robert Bosch Centre for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
| | - Santosh Benjamin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
- Department of Community Health, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | | | - Shinjini Bhatnagar
- Maternal and Child Health Program, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, India
| | - Ramachandran Thiruvengadam
- Maternal and Child Health Program, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad, India
- Department of Biochemistry, Pondicherry Institute of Medical Sciences, Puducherry, India
| | - Himanshu Sinha
- Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
- Centre for Integrative Biology and Systems medicinE, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
- Robert Bosch Centre for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
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Sperling D, Riskin A, Borenstein-Levin L, Hochwald O. At the threshold of viability: to resuscitate or not to resuscitate - the perspectives of Israeli neonatologists. BMJ Paediatr Open 2024; 8:e002633. [PMID: 38754896 PMCID: PMC11097872 DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2024-002633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to examine the perspectives of neonatologists in Israel regarding resuscitation of preterm infants born at 22-24 weeks gestation and their consideration of parental preferences. The factors that influence physicians' decisions on the verge of viability were investigated, and the extent to which their decisions align with the national clinical guidelines were determined. STUDY DESIGN Descriptive and correlative study using a 47-questions online questionnaire. RESULTS 90 (71%) of 127 active neonatologists in Israel responded. 74%, 50% and 16% of the respondents believed that resuscitation and full treatment at birth are against the best interests of infants born at 22, 23 and 24 weeks gestation, respectively. Respondents' decisions regarding resuscitation of extremely preterm infants showed significant variation and were consistently in disagreement with either the national clinical guidelines or the perception of what is in the best interest of these newborns. Gender, experience, country of birth and the level of religiosity were all associated with respondents' preferences regarding treatment decisions. Personal values and concerns about legal issues were also believed to affect decision-making. CONCLUSION Significant variation was observed among Israeli neonatologists regarding delivery room management of extremely premature infants born at 22-24 weeks gestation, usually with a notable emphasis on respecting parents' wishes. The current national guidelines do not fully encompass the wide range of approaches. The country's guidelines should reflect the existing range of opinions, possibly through a broad survey of caregivers before setting the guidelines and recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Sperling
- Cheryl Spencer Department of Nursing, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Arieh Riskin
- Neonatology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel
- Pediatrics, Technion Israel Institute of Technology The Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel
| | - Liron Borenstein-Levin
- Pediatrics, Technion Israel Institute of Technology The Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ori Hochwald
- Pediatrics, Technion Israel Institute of Technology The Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Haifa, Israel
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
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Goodfellow L, Curran C, Care A. Early PPROM: women and babies who should not be lost in the system. BMJ 2024; 384:q690. [PMID: 38508672 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.q690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Goodfellow
- Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK
| | - Ciara Curran
- Patient author, Little Heartbeats Patient Support Group, Buxton, UK
| | - Angharad Care
- Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK
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Goodfellow L, Care A, Curran C, Roberts D, Turner MA, Knight M, Zarko A. Preterm prelabour rupture of membranes before 23 weeks' gestation: prospective observational study. BMJ MEDICINE 2024; 3:e000729. [PMID: 38601318 PMCID: PMC11005708 DOI: 10.1136/bmjmed-2023-000729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Objective To describe perinatal and maternal outcomes of preterm prelabour rupture of membranes (PPROM) before 23 weeks' gestation in a national cohort. Design Prospective observational study. Setting National population based cohort study with the UK Obstetric Surveillance System (UKOSS), a research infrastructure of all 194 obstetric units in the UK, 1 September 2019 to 28 February 2021. Participants 326 women with singleton and 38 with multiple pregnancies with PPROM between 16+0 and 22+6 weeks+days' gestation. Main outcome measures Perinatal outcomes of live birth, survival to discharge from hospital, and severe morbidity, defined as intraventricular haemorrhage grade 3 or 4, or requiring supplemental oxygen at 36 weeks' postmenstrual age, or both. Maternal outcomes were surgery for removal of the placenta, sepsis, admission to an intensive treatment unit, and death. Clinical data included rates of termination of pregnancy for medical reasons. Results Perinatal outcomes were calculated with all terminations of pregnancy for medical reasons excluded, and a worst-best range was calculated assuming that all terminations for medical reasons and those with missing data would have died (minimum value) or all would be liveborn (maximum value). For singleton pregnancies, the live birth rate was 44% (98/223), range 30-62% (98/326-201/326), perinatal survival to discharge from hospital was 26% (54/207), range 17-53% (54/326-173/326), and 18% (38/207), range 12-48% (38/326-157/326) of babies survived without severe morbidity. The rate of maternal sepsis was 12% (39/326) in singleton and 29% (11/38) in multiple pregnancies (P=0.004). Surgery for removal of the placenta was needed in 20% (65/326) and 16% (6/38) of singleton and twin pregnancies, respectively. Five women became severely unwell with sepsis; two died and another three required care in the intensive treatment unit. Conclusions In this study, 26% of women who had very early PPROM with expectant management had babies that survived to discharge from hospital. Morbidity and mortality rates were high for both mothers and neonates. Maternal sepsis is a considerable risk that needs more research. These data should be used in counselling families with PPROM before 23 weeks' gestation, and currently available guidelines should be updated accordingly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Goodfellow
- Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Angharad Care
- Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Ciara Curran
- Little Heartbeats Patient Support Group, Buxton, UK
| | | | - Mark A Turner
- Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Alfirevic Zarko
- Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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Goupille P, Rollet Q, Prime L, Alexandre C, Dolley P, Dreyfus M. Extreme prematurity: Factors associated with perinatal management and morbi-mortality in western Normandy, France. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2024; 53:102735. [PMID: 38280456 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2024.102735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extreme prematurity (birth before 26 weeks of gestation), presents complex challenges and can lead to various complications. Survival rates of extremely preterm infants are lower in France than in other countries. The choice between active and palliative care is decisive in managing these births. OBJECTIVE To conduct an observational study focused on factors associated with perinatal management, mortality, and morbidity outcomes among extremely preterm births in a regional perinatal network. METHODS We undertook a retrospective, multicenter study within the western Normandy perinatal network, encompassing live births between 230/6 and 256/6 weeks from 2015 to 2019. Data were extracted from the perinatal network database and medical records. RESULTS One hundred and seven infants born from 94 women were included. In the antenatal period, 79 were exposed to corticosteroids, 66 to magnesium sulfate, and 67 to antibiotics. Active care at birth was provided to 84 neonates of whom 42 survived. In total, 65 infants died. Among the 42 surviving neonates, 9 experienced no severe morbidity, 29 displayed one and 4 exhibited two criteria of severe morbidity. Active care was associated with gestational age. Neonatal survival was correlated with antenatal exposure to antibiotics and magnesium sulfate as well as with postnatal corticosteroids. We found no significant association between mortality and gestational age at birth. CONCLUSION Prognostic factors must be weighed to discuss active antenatal care which is crucial for survival of extremely preterm neonates. Cooperation between obstetricians and neonatal caregivers is a cornerstone on a regional perinatal network scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Goupille
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction Medicine, Caen University Hospital, Avenue de la Côte de Nacre, 14033 Caen, France.
| | - Quentin Rollet
- U1086 "ANTICIPE" INSERM, University of Caen Normandy, Centre François Baclesse: 3, Avenue du Général Harris, 14000 Caen, France
| | - Ludovic Prime
- Perinatal Network, Caen University Hospital, Avenue de la Côte de Nacre, 14033 Caen, France
| | - Cénéric Alexandre
- Department of Neonatology, Caen University Hospital, Avenue de la Côte de Nacre, 14033 Caen, France
| | - Patricia Dolley
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction Medicine, Caen University Hospital, Avenue de la Côte de Nacre, 14033 Caen, France
| | - Michel Dreyfus
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction Medicine, Caen University Hospital, Avenue de la Côte de Nacre, 14033 Caen, France; University of Caen Normandy, Esplanade de la Paix - CS 14032 Cedex 05, Caen, France
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van Blankenstein E, Sodiwala T, Lanoue J, Modi N, Uthaya SN, Battersby C. Two-year neurodevelopmental data for preterm infants born over an 11-year period in England and Wales, 2008-2018: a retrospective study using the National Neonatal Research Database. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2024; 109:143-150. [PMID: 37788897 PMCID: PMC10894848 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2023-325746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE United Kingdom guidelines recommend all infants born <30 weeks' gestation receive neurodevelopmental follow-up at 2 years corrected age. In this study, we describe completeness and results of 2-year neurodevelopmental records in the National Neonatal Research Database (NNRD). DESIGN This retrospective cohort study uses data from the NNRD, which holds data on all neonatal admissions in England and Wales, including 2year follow-up status. PATIENTS We included all preterm infants born <30 weeks' gestation between 1 January 2008 and 31 December 2018 in England and Wales, who survived to discharge from neonatal care. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Presence of a 2-year neurodevelopmental assessment record in the NNRD, use of standardised assessment tools, results of functional 2-year neurodevelopmental assessments (visual, auditory, neuromotor, communication, overall development). RESULTS Of the 41 505 infants included, 24 125 (58%) had a 2-year neurodevelopmental assessment recorded. This improved over time, from 32% to 71% for births in 2008 and 2018, respectively.Of those with available data: 0.4% were blind; 1% had a hearing impairment not correctable with aids; 13% had <5 meaningful words, vocalisations or signs; 8% could not walk without assistance and 9% had severe (≥12 months) developmental delay. CONCLUSIONS The proportion of infants admitted to neonatal units in England and Wales with a 2-year neurodevelopmental record has improved over time. Rates of follow-up data from recent years are comparable to those of bespoke observational studies. With continual improvement in data completeness, the potential for use of NNRD as a source of longer-term outcome data can be realised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily van Blankenstein
- Neonatal Medicine, Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Tia Sodiwala
- Neonatal Medicine, Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Julia Lanoue
- Neonatal Medicine, Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Neena Modi
- Neonatal Medicine, Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Sabita N Uthaya
- Neonatal Medicine, Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Cheryl Battersby
- Neonatal Medicine, Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Vallant N, Thakkar H, Jogeesvaran H, Yardley I. Abdominal Ultrasound Scanning for NEC in Babies at the Threshold of Viability: A Single Centre Experience. J Pediatr Surg 2024; 59:202-205. [PMID: 37957102 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2023.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
AIM Neonatal units are caring for increasing numbers of babies born <24 weeks gestation. These babies are vulnerable to developing necrotising enterocolitis (NEC). Their presentation is often atypical, both clinically and radiologically. Optimal diagnostic strategies are not yet known. We report our experience of abdominal ultrasound scanning (AUSS) to clarify its role. METHODS All babies in a single neonatal surgical centre born <24 weeks gestation undergoing AUSS for suspected NEC from January 2015 to January 2023 were included. We compared abdominal ultrasound findings with plain radiographs and correlated these to intraoperative findings. RESULTS Thirty-nine babies born <24 weeks gestation were diagnosed with NEC during the study period, and of these seventeen had an AUSS and formed the study cohort. Twelve underwent laparotomy at which NEC was confirmed, and the remaining five were managed non-operatively. Abdominal radiograph findings were: Paucity of gas (12), gaseous dilatation (2), paucity of gas with proximal dilatation (1), pneumatosis (1), and lucencies over the liver (1). In twelve cases who underwent surgery, AUSS findings were (more than one possible): Complex ascites (6), inflamed bowel (4), aperistaltic bowel (3), mass/collection (4), pneumatosis (1). All had NEC confirmed at laparotomy. In five cases who did not progress to surgery, findings were: Simple free fluid (2), pneumatosis (2), inflamed bowel (1), aperistaltic bowel (1). None of these cases subsequently underwent surgery or died of complications of NEC. CONCLUSION AUSS is a useful imaging modality for NEC in babies born <24 weeks gestation. It can reliably identify babies who would benefit from surgery. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4 TYPE OF STUDY Retrospective cohort study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Vallant
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Evelina London Children's Hospital, London, UK.
| | - Hemanshoo Thakkar
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Evelina London Children's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Haran Jogeesvaran
- Department of Paediatric Radiology, Evelina London Children's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Iain Yardley
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Evelina London Children's Hospital, London, UK; King's College London, School of Health and Life Sciences, London, UK
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Schneider K, Roll S, Tissen-Diabaté T, Bührer C, Garten L. Public Attitudes Toward Ethics and Practices in End-of-Life Decision-Making for Neonates. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e2353264. [PMID: 38270948 PMCID: PMC10811557 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.53264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Attitudes toward end-of-life decision-making in neonatology have been studied in physicians and other health care professionals and are mostly shaped by their clinical education and work experiences. In contrast, attitudes among the general public have not yet been investigated. Objective To assess (1) attitudes in the general public toward euthanasia and withdrawal of life-prolonging treatment in neonates with severe life-limiting conditions, (2) knowledge of current German recommendations, and (3) values in the German society regarding ethical issues and proxy decisions at the beginning of life. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional study was performed in Germany and used an exploratory design to analyze responses to an interview conducted by an independent, established commissioned polling institute in March and April 2022. Participants were 16 years or older, with German language fluency and comprehension and living in Germany. Main Outcomes and Measures Knowledge about recommendations for euthanasia and withdrawal of life-prolonging treatment as well as personal attitudes toward (1) euthanasia and withdrawal of life-prolonging treatment and (2) surrogate end-of-life decision-making for newborn infants were assessed. Results The study included 2116 participants (1077 females [50.9%]; mean [SD] age 52.1 [18.7] years). Of the participants, 16.8% (311 of 1851) reported knowing the German recommendations for euthanasia and withdrawal of life-prolonging treatment for neonates. Euthanasia and withdrawal of life-prolonging treatment were supported by 64.7% (1369 of 2116) and 77.9% (1649 of 2116) of respondents, respectively. Shared decision-making between parents and physicians for neonates in end-of-life situations was supported by 65.6% of participants (1388). In situations where shared decision-making was not possible, 73.4% of respondents (1019 of 1388) put the ultimate decision to the parents. The magnitude of the associations was low between sociodemographic factors and views on ethical issues and customary practices involved in end-of-life decisions for neonates. Conclusions and Relevance Results of this cross-sectional study suggested that most respondents were not aware of the national German recommendations for euthanasia and withdrawal of life-prolonging treatment for sick and extremely preterm newborns. When counseling parents of periviable newborns, clinicians may need to exert more effort in explaining the legal and ethical framework; a highly individualized approach is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Schneider
- Department of Neonatology, Gemeinnützige Gesellschaft der Franziskanerinnen zu Olpe, Marien-Hospital, Bonn, Germany
- Department of Neonatology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stephanie Roll
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Tatjana Tissen-Diabaté
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christoph Bührer
- Department of Neonatology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lars Garten
- Department of Neonatology, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Farooqi A, Hakansson S, Serenius F, Kallen K, Björklund L, Normann E, Domellöf M, Ådén U, Abrahamsson T, Elfvin A, Sävman K, Bergström PU, Stephansson O, Ley D, Hellstrom-Westas L, Norman M. One-year survival and outcomes of infants born at 22 and 23 weeks of gestation in Sweden 2004-2007, 2014-2016 and 2017-2019. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2023; 109:10-17. [PMID: 37290903 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2022-325164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore associations between perinatal activity and survival in infants born at 22 and 23 weeks of gestation in Sweden. DESIGN/SETTING Data on all births at 22 and 23 weeks' gestational age (GA) were prospectively collected in 2004-2007 (T1) or obtained from national registers in 2014-2016 (T2) and 2017-2019 (T3). Infants were assigned perinatal activity scores based on 3 key obstetric and 4 neonatal interventions. MAIN OUTCOME One-year survival and survival without major neonatal morbidities (MNM): intraventricular haemorrhage grade 3-4, cystic periventricular leucomalacia, surgical necrotising enterocolitis, retinopathy of prematurity stage 3-5 or severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia. The association of GA-specific perinatal activity score and 1-year survival was also determined. RESULTS 977 infants (567 live births and 410 stillbirths) were included: 323 born in T1, 347 in T2 and 307 in T3. Among live-born infants, survival at 22 weeks was 5/49 (10%) in T1 and rose significantly to 29/74 (39%) in T2 and 31/80 (39%) in T3. Survival was not significantly different between epochs at 23 weeks (53%, 61% and 67%). Among survivors, the proportions without MNM in T1, T2 and T3 were 20%, 17% and 19% for 22 weeks and 17%, 25% and 25% for 23 weeks' infants (p>0.05 for all comparisons). Each 5-point increment in GA-specific perinatal activity score increased the odds for survival in first 12 hours of life (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.4; 95% CI 1.3 to 1.6) in addition to 1-year survival (aOR 1.2; 95% CI 1.1 to 1.3), and among live-born infants it was associated with increased survival without MNM (aOR 1.3; 95% CI 1.1 to 1.4). CONCLUSION Increased perinatal activity was associated with reduced mortality and increased chances of survival without MNM in infants born at 22 and 23 weeks of GA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aijaz Farooqi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Pediatrics, Umeå University, Umea, Sweden
| | - Stellan Hakansson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Pediatrics, Umeå University, Umea, Sweden
- Pediatrics, Swedish Neonatal Quality Register, Umeå Universitet, Umea, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Serenius
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Karin Kallen
- Department of Reproductive Epidemiology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Lars Björklund
- Departments of Clinical Sciences and Pediatrics, Skåne University Hospital Lund, Lund, Sweden
| | - Erik Normann
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Magnus Domellöf
- Department of Clinical Sciences-Pediatrics, Umeå universitet Medicinska fakulteten, Umea, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Ådén
- Woman and Child Health, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Thomas Abrahamsson
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences and Department of Pediatrics, Linköping University, Linkoping, Sweden
| | - Anders Elfvin
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Gothenburg Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Pediatrics, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Goteborg, Sweden
| | - Karin Sävman
- Department of Pediatrics, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Goteborg, Sweden
| | - Petra Um Bergström
- Clinical Science and Education at Sodersjukhuset, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Olof Stephansson
- Departments of Medicine and Clinical Epidemiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - David Ley
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Pediatrics, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Mikael Norman
- Neonatal Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
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13
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Krick JA, Feltman DM, Carter BS. Buy-in and breakthroughs: the Overton window in neonatology for the resuscitation of extremely preterm infants. J Perinatol 2023; 43:1548-1551. [PMID: 37591944 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-023-01755-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
To understand the future of neonatology, it is important to reflect upon the past and the factors that lead to significant advances in the field. In this article, we explore the evolving landscape of neonatology and the shifting practices in the resuscitation of extremely premature infants, with a particular focus on societal influences that have driven these changes. Using the political policy concept of an Overton Window, we explore how breakthroughs move from unthinkable to acceptable practice and how the increasing involvement of parents and their advocacy efforts have played a pivotal role in that progress. In the era of expanded shared decision making, it is crucial that we apply that same approach to setting priorities in our field, acknowledging the crucial perspectives of both parents and former premature infants in shaping the future of neonatology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanne A Krick
- Department of Pediatrics, Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, TX, USA.
| | - Dalia M Feltman
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Evanston Hospital, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, USA
- Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Brian S Carter
- Division of Neonatology, Children's Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
- Bioethics Center, Children's Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
- Departments of Humanities & Bioethics and Pediatrics, University of Missouri-Kansas City, School of Medicine, Kansas City, MO, USA
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14
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Ushida T, Kotani T, Baba J, Imai K, Moriyama Y, Nakano-Kobayashi T, Iitani Y, Nakamura N, Hayakawa M, Kajiyama H. Antenatal prediction models for outcomes of extremely and very preterm infants based on machine learning. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2023; 308:1755-1763. [PMID: 36502513 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-022-06865-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Predicting individual risks for adverse outcomes in preterm infants is necessary for perinatal management and antenatal counseling for their parents. To evaluate whether a machine learning approach can improve the prediction of severe infant outcomes beyond the performance of conventional logistic models, and to identify maternal and fetal factors that largely contribute to these outcomes. METHODS A population-based retrospective study was performed using clinical data of 31,157 infants born at < 32 weeks of gestation and weighing ≤ 1500 g, registered in the Neonatal Research Network of Japan between 2006 and 2015. We developed a conventional logistic model and 6 types of machine learning models based on 12 maternal and fetal factors. Discriminative ability was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUROCs), and the importance of each factor in terms of its contribution to outcomes was evaluated using the SHAP (SHapley Additive exPlanations) value. RESULTS The AUROCs of the most discriminative machine learning models were better than those of the conventional models for all outcomes. The AUROCs for in-hospital death and short-term adverse outcomes in the gradient boosting decision tree were significantly higher than those in the conventional model (p = 0.015 and p = 0.002, respectively). The SHAP value analyses showed that gestational age, birth weight, and antenatal corticosteroid treatment were the three most important factors associated with severe infant outcomes. CONCLUSION Machine learning models improve the prediction of severe infant outcomes. Moreover, the machine learning approach provides insight into the potential risk factors for severe infant outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takafumi Ushida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-Cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan.
- Division of Perinatology, Center for Maternal-Neonatal Care, Nagoya University Hospital, Nagoya, Japan.
| | - Tomomi Kotani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-Cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
- Division of Perinatology, Center for Maternal-Neonatal Care, Nagoya University Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Joji Baba
- Education Software Co., Ltd, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenji Imai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-Cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Moriyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Japan
| | | | - Yukako Iitani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-Cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Noriyuki Nakamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-Cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Masahiro Hayakawa
- Division of Neonatology, Center for Maternal-Neonatal Care, Nagoya University Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Kajiyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-Cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
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15
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Smith LK, van Blankenstein E, Fox G, Seaton SE, Martínez-Jiménez M, Petrou S, Battersby C. Effect of national guidance on survival for babies born at 22 weeks' gestation in England and Wales: population based cohort study. BMJ MEDICINE 2023; 2:e000579. [PMID: 38027415 PMCID: PMC10649719 DOI: 10.1136/bmjmed-2023-000579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Objectives To explore the effect of changes in national clinical recommendations in 2019 that extended provision of survival focused care to babies born at 22 weeks' gestation in England and Wales. Design Population based cohort study. Setting England and Wales, comprising routine data for births and hospital records. Participants Babies alive at the onset of care in labour at 22 weeks+0 days to 22 weeks+6 days and at 23 weeks+0 days to 24 weeks+6 days for comparison purposes between 1 January 2018 and 31 December 2021. Main outcome measures Percentage of babies given survival focused care (active respiratory support after birth), admitted to neonatal care, and surviving to discharge in 2018-19 and 2020-21. Results For the 1001 babies alive at the onset of labour at 22 weeks' gestation, a threefold increase was noted in: survival focused care provision from 11.3% to 38.4% (risk ratio 3.41 (95% confidence interval 2.61 to 4.45)); admissions to neonatal units from 7.4% to 28.1% (3.77 (2.70 to 5.27)), and survival to discharge from neonatal care from 2.5% to 8.2% (3.29 (1.78 to 6.09)). More babies of lower birth weight and early gestational age received survival focused care in 2020-21 than 2018-19 (46% to 64% at <500g weight; 19% to 31% at 22 weeks+0 days to 22 weeks+3 days). Conclusions A change in national guidance to recommend a risk based approach was associated with a threefold increase in 22 weeks' gestation babies receiving survival focused care. The number of babies being admitted to neonatal units and those surviving to discharge increased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy K Smith
- Population Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Emily van Blankenstein
- Neonatal Medicine, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Grenville Fox
- Neonatology, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Sarah E Seaton
- Population Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Mario Martínez-Jiménez
- Department of Economics and Public Policy, Centre for Health Economics & Policy Innovation, Imperial College Business School, London, UK
| | - Stavros Petrou
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care and Health Science, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Cheryl Battersby
- Neonatal Medicine, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
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16
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Janvier A, Bourque CJ, Pearce R, Thivierge E, Duquette LA, Jaworski M, Barrington KJ, Synnes AR, Church P, Luu TM. Fragility and resilience: parental and family perspectives on the impacts of extreme prematurity. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2023; 108:575-580. [PMID: 36997307 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2022-325011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Extremely preterm babies have a significant risk of neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI). There has been little investigation regarding the impact of prematurity on families. The objective of this study was to explore parental perspectives regarding the impact of prematurity on themselves/their family. METHODS Over 1 year, parents of children born <29 weeks' gestational age (GA) who were between 18 months old and 7 years old and came for their follow-up visit were invited to participate. They were asked to categorise the impacts of prematurity on their life and their family as positive, negative or both and to describe those impacts in their own words. Thematic analysis was performed by a multidisciplinary group, including parents. Logistic regression was performed to compare parental responses. RESULTS Among parents (n=248, 98% participation rate), most (74%) reported that their child's prematurity had both positive and negative impacts on their life or their family's life, while 18% reported only positive impacts and 8% only negative impacts. These proportions were not correlated with GA, brain injury, nor level of NDI. The positive impacts reported included: an improved outlook on life, such as gratitude and perspective (48%), stronger family relationships (31%) and the gift of the child (28%). The negative themes were stress and fear (42%), loss of equilibrium due to medical fragility (35%) and concerns about developmental outcomes including the child's future (18%). CONCLUSION Parents report both positive and negative impacts after an extremely preterm birth, independent of disability. These balanced perspectives should be included in neonatal research, clinical care and provider education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Janvier
- Department of Pediatrics and Clinical Ethics, Bureau de l'éthique clinique, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Neonatology, Palliative Care, Reserch Center, Unité d'éthique Clinique, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Claude Julie Bourque
- Department of Pediatrics, CHU Sainte-Justine Centre de Recherche, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Clinical Ethics and Family Partnership Research Unit, CHU Sainte-Justine Centre de Recherche, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Rebecca Pearce
- Parent Representative, Canadian Premature Baby Foundation, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Emilie Thivierge
- Department of Pediatrics, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Magdalena Jaworski
- Department of Pediatrics, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Keith J Barrington
- Department of Neonatology, Centre de Recherche, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte Justine, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Universite de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Anne R Synnes
- Department of Neonatology, BC Women's Hospital and Health Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Paige Church
- Department of Neonatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Thuy Mai Luu
- Department of Pediatrics, Universite de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Pediatrics and Research Center, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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17
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Schneider K, Müller J, Schleußner E. German obstetrician's self-reported attitudes and handling in threatening preterm birth at the limits of viability. J Perinat Med 2023; 51:1097-1103. [PMID: 37256371 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2022-0547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Antenatal treatment and information influences the course of pregnancy and parental decision-making in cases of threatened prematurity on the borderline of viability. Numerous studies have shown significant interprofessional differences in assessing ethical boundary decisions; hence, this study aimed to evaluate obstetricians attitudes, practices and antenatal parental counseling regarding threatened preterm birth in Germany. METHODS An anonymous online questionnaire was administered to 543 obstetricians at tertiary perinatal centers and prenatal diagnostic centers in Germany. The survey contained questions on basic ethical issues assessed using the Likert scale and a case vignette regarding the practical procedures of an imminent extreme premature birth at 23 1/7 gestational weeks. RESULTS In the case of unstoppable preterm birth, 15 % of clinicians said they would carry out a cesarean section; however, specialists from centers with a high number of very low birth weight infants would do so significantly more often. Among respondents, 29.8 % did not take any therapeutic measures without discussing the child's treatment options with their parents, 19.9 % refused to offer actionable advice to the parents, and 57 % said they would advise parents to seek intensive care treatment for the child with the option of changing treatment destination in the event of serious complications. Moreover, 84 % said they would provide information together with neonatologists. CONCLUSIONS Joint counseling with neonatologists is widely accepted. The size of the perinatal center significantly influences the practical approach to threatened preterm births. Respect for parents' decision-making autonomy regarding the child's treatment options is central and influences therapy initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Schneider
- Department of Neonatology, Charité University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Johanna Müller
- Department of Obstetrics, University Hospital Jena, Jena, Germany
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18
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de Boer A, van Beek PE, Andriessen P, Groenendaal F, Hogeveen M, Meijer JS, Obermann-Borst SA, Onland W, Scheepers L(HCJ, Vermeulen MJ, Verweij EJT(J, De Proost L, Geurtzen R. Opportunities and Challenges of Prognostic Models for Extremely Preterm Infants. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1712. [PMID: 37892375 PMCID: PMC10605480 DOI: 10.3390/children10101712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Predicting the short- and long-term outcomes of extremely preterm infants remains a challenge. Multivariable prognostic models might be valuable tools for clinicians, parents, and policymakers for providing accurate outcome estimates. In this perspective, we discuss the opportunities and challenges of using prognostic models in extremely preterm infants at population and individual levels. At a population level, these models could support the development of guidelines for decisions about treatment limits and may support policy processes such as benchmarking and resource allocation. At an individual level, these models may enhance prenatal counselling conversations by considering multiple variables and improving transparency about expected outcomes. Furthermore, they may improve consistency in projections shared with parents. For the development of prognostic models, we discuss important considerations such as predictor and outcome measure selection, clinical impact assessment, and generalizability. Lastly, future recommendations for developing and using prognostic models are suggested. Importantly, the purpose of a prognostic model should be clearly defined, and integrating these models into prenatal counselling requires thoughtful consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angret de Boer
- Department of Neonatology, Amalia Children’s Hospital, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 32, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (P.E.v.B.); (M.H.); (R.G.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Leiden University Medical Centre, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands;
| | - Pauline E. van Beek
- Department of Neonatology, Amalia Children’s Hospital, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 32, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (P.E.v.B.); (M.H.); (R.G.)
- Department of Neonatology, Máxima Medical Center, 5504 DB Veldhoven, The Netherlands; (P.A.); (J.S.M.)
| | - Peter Andriessen
- Department of Neonatology, Máxima Medical Center, 5504 DB Veldhoven, The Netherlands; (P.A.); (J.S.M.)
| | - Floris Groenendaal
- Department of Neonatology, Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 EA Utrecht, The Netherlands;
| | - Marije Hogeveen
- Department of Neonatology, Amalia Children’s Hospital, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 32, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (P.E.v.B.); (M.H.); (R.G.)
| | - Julia S. Meijer
- Department of Neonatology, Máxima Medical Center, 5504 DB Veldhoven, The Netherlands; (P.A.); (J.S.M.)
| | - Sylvia A. Obermann-Borst
- Care4Neo, Dutch Neonatal Patient and Parent Advocacy Organization, 3068 JN Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (S.A.O.-B.); (M.J.V.)
| | - Wes Onland
- Department of Neonatology, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Center, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
- Amsterdam Reproduction & Development, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Marijn J. Vermeulen
- Care4Neo, Dutch Neonatal Patient and Parent Advocacy Organization, 3068 JN Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (S.A.O.-B.); (M.J.V.)
- Department of Neonatal and Pediatric Intensive Care, Division of Neonatology, Sophia Children’s Hospital, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015 CN Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E. J. T. (Joanne) Verweij
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Leiden University Medical Centre, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands;
| | - Lien De Proost
- Department of Ethics and Law, Leiden University Medical Centre, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands;
| | - Rosa Geurtzen
- Department of Neonatology, Amalia Children’s Hospital, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 32, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (P.E.v.B.); (M.H.); (R.G.)
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19
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Chapman-Hatchett N, Chittenden N, Arattu Thodika FMS, Williams EE, Harris C, Dassios T, Arasu A, Johnson K, Greenough A. Risk assessment of survival and morbidity of infants born at <24 completed weeks of gestation. Early Hum Dev 2023; 185:105852. [PMID: 37659264 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2023.105852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infants born at the threshold of viability have a high risk of mortality and morbidity. The British Association of Perinatal Medicine (BAPM) provided updated guidance in 2019 advising a risk-based approach to balancing decisions about active versus redirected care at birth. AIMS To determine survival and morbidity of infants born between 22 and 24 completed weeks of gestation. To develop a scoring system to categorise infants at birth according to risk for mortality or severe adverse outcome. METHODS A retrospective, single centre observational study of infants who received neonatal care from 2011 to 2021. Data were collected on mortality, morbidity and two-year neurodevelopmental outcomes. Each infant was risk categorised utilising the proposed tools in the BAPM (2019) framework. A composite adverse score for either dying or surviving with severe impairment was created. RESULTS Four infants born at 22 weeks, 49 at 23 weeks and 105 at 24 weeks of gestation were included. The mortality rate was 23.4 %. Following risk categorisation there were 8 (5.1 %) extremely high risk, 44 (27.8 %) high risk and 106 (67.1 %) moderate risk infants. The rate of dying or surviving with severe impairment for extremely high risk, high risk and moderate risk were 100 %, 88.9 % and 53 % respectively. The proportions with the composite adverse outcome differed significantly according to the risk category (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS When applying a scoring system to risk categorise infants at birth, high rates of dying or surviving with severe impairment were found in infants born at 22 or 23 weeks of gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fahad M S Arattu Thodika
- Department of Women and Children's Health, School of Life Course Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, SE5 9RS, United Kingdom; Neonatal Intensive Care Centre, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London SE5 9RS, United Kingdom.
| | - Emma E Williams
- Department of Women and Children's Health, School of Life Course Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, SE5 9RS, United Kingdom.
| | - Christopher Harris
- Department of Women and Children's Health, School of Life Course Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, SE5 9RS, United Kingdom; Neonatal Intensive Care Centre, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London SE5 9RS, United Kingdom.
| | - Theodore Dassios
- Department of Women and Children's Health, School of Life Course Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, SE5 9RS, United Kingdom; Neonatal Intensive Care Centre, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London SE5 9RS, United Kingdom.
| | - Anusha Arasu
- Neonatal Intensive Care Centre, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London SE5 9RS, United Kingdom.
| | | | - Anne Greenough
- Department of Women and Children's Health, School of Life Course Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, SE5 9RS, United Kingdom.
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20
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Azcoaga-Lorenzo A, Fagbamigbe AF, Agrawal U, Black M, Usman M, Lee SI, Eastwood KA, Moss N, Plachcinski R, Nelson-Piercy C, Brophy S, O'Reilly D, Nirantharakumar K, McCowan C. Maternal multimorbidity and preterm birth in Scotland: an observational record-linkage study. BMC Med 2023; 21:352. [PMID: 37697325 PMCID: PMC10496247 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-023-03058-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multimorbidity is common in women across the life course. Preterm birth is the single biggest cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity. We aim to estimate the prevalence of multimorbidity in pregnant women and to examine the association between maternal multimorbidity and PTB. METHODS This is a retrospective cohort study using electronic health records from the Scottish Morbidity Records. All pregnancies among women aged 15 to 49 with a conception date between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2018 were included. Multimorbidity was defined as the presence of two or more pre-existing long-term physical or mental health conditions, and complex multimorbidity as the presence of four or more. It was calculated at the time of conception using a predefined list of 79 conditions published by the MuM-PreDiCT consortium. PTB was defined as babies born alive between 24 and less than 37 completed weeks of gestation. We used Generalised Estimating Equations adjusted for maternal age, socioeconomic status, number of previous pregnancies, BMI, and smoking history to estimate the effect of maternal pre-existing multimorbidity. Absolut rates are reported in the results and tables, whilst Odds Ratios (ORs) are adjusted (aOR). RESULTS Thirty thousand five hundred fifty-seven singleton births from 27,711 pregnant women were included in the analysis. The prevalence of pre-existing multimorbidity and complex multimorbidity was 16.8% (95% CI: 16.4-17.2) and 3.6% (95% CI: 3.3-3.8), respectively. The prevalence of multimorbidity in the youngest age group was 10.2%(95% CI: 8.8-11.6), while in those 40 to 44, it was 21.4% (95% CI: 18.4-24.4), and in the 45 to 49 age group, it was 20% (95% CI: 8.9-31.1). In women without multimorbidity, the prevalence of PTB was 6.7%; it was 11.6% in women with multimorbidity and 15.6% in women with complex multimorbidity. After adjusting for maternal age, socioeconomic status, number of previous pregnancies, Body Mass Index (BMI), and smoking, multimorbidity was associated with higher odds of PTB (aOR = 1.64, 95% CI: 1.48-1.82). CONCLUSIONS Multimorbidity at the time of conception was present in one in six women and was associated with an increased risk of preterm birth. Multimorbidity presents a significant health burden to women and their offspring. Routine and comprehensive evaluation of women with multimorbidity before and during pregnancy is urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amaya Azcoaga-Lorenzo
- Division of Population and Behavioural Sciences, School of Medicine, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK.
- Hospital Rey Juan Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Fundación Jimenez Diaz, Madrid, Spain.
- Research Network On Chronicity, Primary Care and Prevention and Health Promotion, (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Adeniyi Francis Fagbamigbe
- Division of Population and Behavioural Sciences, School of Medicine, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Utkarsh Agrawal
- Division of Population and Behavioural Sciences, School of Medicine, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Mairead Black
- Aberdeen Centre for Women's Health Research, School of Medicine, Medical Science and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Muhammad Usman
- Division of Population and Behavioural Sciences, School of Medicine, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | - Siang Ing Lee
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Kelly-Ann Eastwood
- Centre for Public Health, Queen's University of Belfast, Belfast, UK
- St Michael's Hospital, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Ngawai Moss
- Patient and Public Representative, London, UK
| | | | | | - Sinead Brophy
- Data Science, Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Dermot O'Reilly
- Centre for Public Health, Queen's University of Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | | | - Colin McCowan
- Division of Population and Behavioural Sciences, School of Medicine, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
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21
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Davis JW, Seeber CE, Nathan EA, Strunk T, Gill A, Sharp M. Outcomes to 5 years of outborn versus inborn infants <32 weeks in Western Australia: a cohort study of infants born between 2005 and 2018. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2023; 108:499-504. [PMID: 36804194 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2022-324749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We compared mortality and morbidity of inborn versus outborn very preterm infants <32 weeks' gestation in Western Australia (WA) between 2005 and 2018. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. PATIENTS Infants <32 weeks' gestation who were born in WA. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Mortality was assessed as death before discharge home from the tertiary neonatal intensive care unit. Short-term morbidities included combined brain injury (intracranial haemorrhage grade ≥3 and cystic periventricular leukomalacia) and other major neonatal outcomes. Developmental assessments at age 2, 3 and 5 years were evaluated. We performed multivariable logistic regression analysis of outborn status on outcomes, controlling for gestational age, birth weight z-score, sex and multiple birth. RESULTS A total of 4974 infants were born in WA between 22 and 32 weeks' gestation between 2005 and 2018 of which 4237 (89.6%) were inborn and 443 (10.4%) were outborn. Overall mortality to discharge was higher in outborn infants (20.5% (91/443) vs 7.4% (314/4237); adjusted OR (aOR) 2.44, 95% CI 1.60 to 3.70, p<0.001). Outborn infants had higher rates of combined brain injury than those inborn (10.7% (41/384) vs 6.0% (246/4115); aOR 1.98, 95% CI 1.37 to 2.86), p<0.001). No difference in up to 5-year developmental measures was detected. Follow-up data were available for 65% of outborn and 79% of inborn infants. CONCLUSIONS Outborn preterm infants <32 weeks in WA had increased odds of mortality and combined brain injury than those inborn. Developmental outcomes up to 5 years were similar between groups. Loss to follow-up may have impacted the long-term comparison.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan W Davis
- Newborn Emergency Transport Service of Western Australia, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Neonatal Directorate, Child and Adolescent Health Service, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - C E Seeber
- Neonatal Directorate, Child and Adolescent Health Service, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Elizabeth A Nathan
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Tobias Strunk
- Neonatal Directorate, Child and Adolescent Health Service, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Andy Gill
- School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Neonatal Directorate, Child and Adolescent Health Service, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Mary Sharp
- School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Neonatal Directorate, Child and Adolescent Health Service, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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22
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Gizzi C, Gagliardi L, Trevisanuto D, Ghirardello S, Di Fabio S, Beke A, Buonocore G, Charitou A, Cucerea M, Degtyareva MV, Filipović-Grčić B, Jekova NG, Koç E, Saldanha J, Luna MS, Stoniene D, Varendi H, Calafatti M, Vertecchi G, Mosca F, Moretti C. Variation in delivery room management of preterm infants across Europe: a survey of the Union of European Neonatal and Perinatal Societies. Eur J Pediatr 2023; 182:4173-4183. [PMID: 37436521 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-023-05107-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the present study, endorsed by the Union of European Neonatal and Perinatal Societies (UENPS) and the Italian Society of Neonatology (SIN), was to analyze the current delivery room (DR) stabilization practices in a large sample of European birth centers that care for preterm infants with gestational age (GA) < 33 weeks. Cross-sectional electronic survey was used in this study. A questionnaire focusing on the current DR practices for infants < 33 weeks' GA, divided in 6 neonatal resuscitation domains, was individually sent to the directors of European neonatal facilities, made available as a web-based link. A comparison was made between hospitals grouped into 5 geographical areas (Eastern Europe (EE), Italy (ITA), Mediterranean countries (MC), Turkey (TUR), and Western Europe (WE)) and between high- and low-volume units across Europe. Two hundred and sixty-two centers from 33 European countries responded to the survey. At the time of the survey, approximately 20,000 very low birth weight (VLBW, < 1500 g) infants were admitted to the participating hospitals, with a median (IQR) of 48 (27-89) infants per center per year. Significant differences between the 5 geographical areas concerned: the volume of neonatal care, ranging from 86 (53-206) admitted VLBW infants per center per year in TUR to 35 (IQR 25-53) in MC; the umbilical cord (UC) management, being the delayed cord clamping performed in < 50% of centers in EE, ITA, and MC, and the cord milking the preferred strategy in TUR; the spotty use of some body temperature control strategies, including thermal mattress mainly employed in WE, and heated humidified gases for ventilation seldom available in MC; and some of the ventilation practices, mainly in regard to the initial FiO2 for < 28 weeks' GA infants, pressures selected for ventilation, and the preferred interface to start ventilation. Specifically, 62.5% of TUR centers indicated the short binasal prongs as the preferred interface, as opposed to the face mask which is widely adopted as first choice in > 80% of the rest of the responding units; the DR surfactant administration, which ranges from 44.4% of the birth centers in MC to 87.5% in WE; and, finally, the ethical issues around the minimal GA limit to provide full resuscitation, ranging from 22 to 25 weeks across Europe. A comparison between high- and low-volume units showed significant differences in the domains of UC management and ventilation practices. Conclusion: Current DR practice and ethical choices show similarities and divergences across Europe. Some areas of assistance, like UC management and DR ventilation strategies, would benefit of standardization. Clinicians and stakeholders should consider this information when allocating resources and planning European perinatal programs. What is Known: • Delivery room (DR) support of preterm infants has a direct influence on both immediate survival and long-term morbidity. • Resuscitation practices for preterm infants often deviate from the internationally defined algorithms. What is New: • Current DR practice and ethical choices show similarities and divergences across Europe. Some areas of assistance, like UC management and DR ventilation strategies, would benefit of standardization. • Clinicians and stakeholders should consider this information when allocating resources and planning European perinatal programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Gizzi
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Ospedale Sandro Pertini, Rome, Italy.
- Union of European Neonatal and Perinatal Societies (UENPS), Milan, Italy.
| | - Luigi Gagliardi
- Division of Neonatology and Pediatrics, Ospedale Versilia, Viareggio, Azienda USL Toscana Nord Ovest, Pisa, Italy
| | - Daniele Trevisanuto
- Department of Woman's and Child's Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Stefano Ghirardello
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Sandra Di Fabio
- Department of Pediatrics, Ospedale San Salvatore, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Artur Beke
- Union of European Neonatal and Perinatal Societies (UENPS), Milan, Italy
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Giuseppe Buonocore
- Union of European Neonatal and Perinatal Societies (UENPS), Milan, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics, Università degli Studi di Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Antonia Charitou
- Union of European Neonatal and Perinatal Societies (UENPS), Milan, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics, Rea Maternity Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Manuela Cucerea
- Union of European Neonatal and Perinatal Societies (UENPS), Milan, Italy
- Neonatology Department, University of Medicine Pharmacy Sciences and Technology "George Emil Palade", Târgu Mures, Romania
| | - Marina V Degtyareva
- Union of European Neonatal and Perinatal Societies (UENPS), Milan, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Boris Filipović-Grčić
- Union of European Neonatal and Perinatal Societies (UENPS), Milan, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Zagreb, HR, Croatia
| | - Nelly Georgieva Jekova
- Union of European Neonatal and Perinatal Societies (UENPS), Milan, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital "Majchin Dom", Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Esin Koç
- Union of European Neonatal and Perinatal Societies (UENPS), Milan, Italy
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Joana Saldanha
- Union of European Neonatal and Perinatal Societies (UENPS), Milan, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital de Santa Maria, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Manuel Sanchez Luna
- Union of European Neonatal and Perinatal Societies (UENPS), Milan, Italy
- Neonatology Division, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital General Universitario "Gregorio Marañón", Madrid, Spain
| | - Dalia Stoniene
- Union of European Neonatal and Perinatal Societies (UENPS), Milan, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Heili Varendi
- Union of European Neonatal and Perinatal Societies (UENPS), Milan, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Matteo Calafatti
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Vertecchi
- Union of European Neonatal and Perinatal Societies (UENPS), Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Mosca
- Department of Pediatrics, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Corrado Moretti
- Union of European Neonatal and Perinatal Societies (UENPS), Milan, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics, Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
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23
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Ramaswamy VV, Bandyopadhyay T, Abiramalatha T, Pullattayil S AK, Szczapa T, Wright CJ, Roehr CC. Clinical decision thresholds for surfactant administration in preterm infants: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. EClinicalMedicine 2023; 62:102097. [PMID: 37538537 PMCID: PMC10393620 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.102097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The ideal threshold at which surfactant administration in preterm neonates with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is most beneficial is contentious. The aim of this systematic review was to determine the optimal clinical criteria to guide surfactant administration in preterm neonates with RDS. Methods The systematic review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022309433). Medline, Embase, CENTRAL and CINAHL were searched from inception till 16th May 2023. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. A Bayesian random effects network meta-analysis (NMA) evaluating 33 interventions was performed. The primary outcome was requirement of invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) within 7 days of life. Findings 58 RCTs were included. In preterm neonates ≤30 weeks after adjusting for the confounding factor of modality of surfactant administration, an arterial alveolar oxygen tension ratio (aAO2) <0.36 (FiO2: 37-55%) was ranked the best threshold for decreasing the risk of IMV, very low certainty. Further, surfactant administration at an FiO2 40-45% possibly decreased mortality compared to rescue treatment when respiratory failure was diagnosed, certainty very low. The reasonable inference that could be drawn from these findings is that surfactant administration may be considered in preterm neonates of ≤30 weeks' with RDS requiring an FiO2 ≥ 40%. There was insufficient evidence for the comparison of FiO2 thresholds: 30% vs. 40%. The evidence was sparse for surfactant administration guided by lung ultrasound. For the sub-group >30 weeks, nebulized surfactant administration at an FiO2 < 30% possibly increased the risk of IMV compared to Intubate-Surfactant-Extubate at FiO2 < 30% and 40%, and less invasive surfactant administration at FiO2 40%, certainty very low. Interpretation Surfactant administration may be considered in preterm neonates of ≤30 weeks' with RDS if the FiO2 requirement is ≥40%. Future trials are required comparing lower FiO2 thresholds of 30% vs. 40% and that guided by lung ultrasound. Funding None.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Thangaraj Abiramalatha
- Department of Neonatology, Kovai Medical Center and Hospital (KMCH), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Tomasz Szczapa
- II Department of Neonatology, Neonatal Biophysical Monitoring and Cardiopulmonary Therapies Research Unit, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Clyde J. Wright
- Section of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Colorado and University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Charles Christoph Roehr
- National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, Medical Sciences Division, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Newborn Services, Southmead Hospital, North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
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24
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Wilkinson DJ, Bertaud S. End of life care in the setting of extreme prematurity - practical challenges and ethical controversies. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2023; 28:101442. [PMID: 37121832 PMCID: PMC10914670 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2023.101442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
While the underlying principles are the same, there are differences in practice in end of life decisions and care for extremely preterm infants compared with other newborns and older children. In this paper, we review end of life care for extremely preterm infants in the delivery room and in the neonatal intensive care unit. We identify potential justifications for differences in the end of life care in this population as well as practical and ethical challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic Jc Wilkinson
- Oxford Uehiro Centre for Practical Ethics, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Oxford, UK; John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Biomedical Ethics, National University of Singapore Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Singapore.
| | - Sophie Bertaud
- Oxford Uehiro Centre for Practical Ethics, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Oxford, UK
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25
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Synnes A, Chera A, Richter LL, Bone JN, Bourque CJ, Zhang-Jiang S, Pearce R, Janvier A, Luu TM. Redefining Neurodevelopmental Impairment: Perspectives of Very Preterm Birth Stakeholders. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:children10050880. [PMID: 37238428 DOI: 10.3390/children10050880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Children born very preterm are at risk of severe neurodevelopmental impairment, a composite endpoint that includes cerebral palsy, developmental delay, and hearing and visual impairment defined by medical professionals. We aimed to describe preterm birth stakeholders' perspectives on this classification. Ten clinical scenarios describing 18-month-old children with different components of severe neurodevelopmental impairment and one scenario of a typically developing child (control) were distributed to parents and stakeholders using a snowball sampling technique. For each scenario, participants rated health on a scale from 0 to 10 and whether the scenario represented a severe condition. Results were analyzed descriptively and mean differences from the control scenario were compared using a linear mixed-effects model. Stakeholders (number = 827) completed 4553 scenarios. Median health scores for each scenario varied from 6 to 10. The rating for the cerebral palsy and language delay scenario was significantly lower (mean difference -4.3; 95% confidence interval: -4.4, -4.1) than the control. The proportion of respondents rating a scenario as "severe" ranged from 5% for cognitive delay to 55% for cerebral palsy and language delay. Most participants disagreed with the rating used in research to describe severe neurodevelopmental impairment in preterm children. The term should be redefined to align with stakeholder perceptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Synnes
- Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia and BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Amarpreet Chera
- Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Lindsay L Richter
- Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Jeffrey N Bone
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | | | - Sofia Zhang-Jiang
- Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Rebecca Pearce
- Science and Mathematics Education Research Group, Faculty of Education, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - Annie Janvier
- Department of Pediatrics, Bureau de l'Éthique Clinique (BEC), Université de Montréal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
- Division of Neonatology, Unité d'Éthique Clinique, Unité de Soins Palliatifs, Bureau du Partenariat Patients-Familles-Soignants, Montréal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Université de Montréal, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Thuy Mai Luu
- Department of Pediatrics, Université de Montréal, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
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26
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Porta R, García-Muñoz Rodrigo F, Avila-Alvarez A, Ventura PS, Izquierdo Renau M, Ginovart G. Active approach in delivery room and survival of infants born between 22 and 26 gestational weeks are increasing in Spain. Acta Paediatr 2023; 112:417-423. [PMID: 36515614 DOI: 10.1111/apa.16625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
AIM To describe the trends in the delivery room approach and survival of extremely premature infants over the past two decades. METHODS Time-series analysis of infants included in the Spanish SEN1500 network from 2004 to 2019. Patients born from 22 + 0 to 26 + 6 weeks were included. The primary outcome was an active approach in the delivery room. Survival and temporal trends were also studied. RESULTS The study population included 8284 patients. At 22 and 23 weeks, an active approach was followed in 41.4% and 80.8%. A temporal trend toward a more active approach was observed at 23 weeks. Antenatal steroids were administered in 19.6% and 58.1% at 22 and 23 weeks. From 24 weeks, an active approach was applied in nearly all cases throughout the period, and more than 80% of patients received antenatal steroids. The rates of survival after an active approach were 8.7%, 21.6%, 40.6%, 59.9%, and 74.7% at 22, 23, 24, 25, and 26 weeks and significantly increased over the period, except for infants born at 22 weeks. CONCLUSION Active management and survival of infants born from 23 weeks increased over the period, but the frequency of antenatal steroid administration was lower than the intention to resuscitate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roser Porta
- Division of Neonatology, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Alejandro Avila-Alvarez
- Division of Neonatology, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de A Coruña (CHUAC), A Coruña, Spain
| | - Paula Sol Ventura
- Division of Neonatology, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Gemma Ginovart
- Division of Neonatology, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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27
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de Boer A, de Vries M, Berken DJ, van Dam H, Verweij EJ, Hogeveen M, Geurtzen R. A scoping review of parental values during prenatal decisions about treatment options after extremely premature birth. Acta Paediatr 2023; 112:911-918. [PMID: 36710530 DOI: 10.1111/apa.16690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
AIM To describe what is known in the literature about parental perspectives in making prenatal decisions regarding treatment after birth at the limit of viability, as a better understanding of parental values can help professionals support parents as they decide. METHODS PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Web of Science were searched to identify relevant literature from 1 January 2010 to 22 April 2022 on parental decision making. Data were extracted from selected studies and organised into themes. The final themes were formed through collaboration with the parents of a premature infant born at 24 weeks. RESULTS Of the 15,159 papers examined, 17 were included. Parental perspectives were described in terms of long-term outcomes for the infant, survival, protection against the burden of neonatal treatment, long-term impact on the family, religion and spiritual beliefs, to do everything possible, hope, sense of responsibility, wanting the best, doing what is right, giving a chance and the influence of experience. CONCLUSION The extracted parental perspectives show the complexity of these decisions. Some perspectives were clear, but others were multi-interpretable. Increasing the understanding of common parental perspectives can help improve shared prenatal decisions and lead to further improvement and personalisation of the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angret de Boer
- Department of Neonatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Amalia Children's Hospital, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marieke de Vries
- Institute for Computing and Information Sciences (iCIS), Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Dirk-Jan Berken
- Parents of an extremely premature infant born at 24 week gestation, The Netherlands
| | - Hiske van Dam
- Parents of an extremely premature infant born at 24 week gestation, The Netherlands
| | - E Joanne Verweij
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marije Hogeveen
- Department of Neonatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Amalia Children's Hospital, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Rosa Geurtzen
- Department of Neonatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Amalia Children's Hospital, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Alrawi W, Atrak T, Abuobayda A, Elmansoury N, Elnakeib O, Lonikar A. Unimpaired outcomes in 18-month-old borderline viable twins born at 22 weeks: A case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e32571. [PMID: 36637925 PMCID: PMC9839268 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000032571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE A gestational age of 22 to 23 weeks is the lower threshold for selective active intervention. Few infants delivered at a gestational age of 22 to 23 weeks survive if resuscitated. Among those who survive, most develop severe complications, especially in cases of multiple births at the limit of viability. PATIENT CONCERNS We report the intact survival of extremely preterm twins, a girl (Twin A) and a boy (Twin B), weighing 504g and 475g, respectively, born at the edge of viability at 22 2/7 weeks gestation without significant morbidity. DIAGNOSES extremely preterm twins born at the edge of viability at 22 2/7 weeks. INTERVENTIONS Twin A required 6 weeks of mechanical ventilation. She received conventional and high-frequency oscillation ventilation. She was extubated to noninvasive positive airway pressure ventilation at 28 weeks and 2 days post conception. Twin B required longer duration of invasive ventilation lasting 11 weeks. Moreover, he had several episodes of feeding intolerance and abdominal distension. However, his serial abdominal radiographs showed nonspecific findings. The gastric tubes were eventually removed from both twins. Full oral feeding was successful on discharge. OUTCOMES Both infants are presently in good condition.They were discharged home with a full oral feeding, and without any respiratory support. Now they are 18-month-old with unimpaired development. LESSONS This report would support healthcare providers in decision-making. It highlights the importance of perinatal and neonatal management optimization to improve survival rates and clinical outcomes of periviable birth. In addition it emphasize the individuality of each case and the need to consider the parents' wishes in the management decision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wafaa Alrawi
- Department of Pediatrics, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- SSMC Hospital in partnership with Mayo Clinic; and Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- * Correspondence: Wafaa AlRawi, Department of Pediatrics, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City Hospital, in partnership with Mayo Clinic, Abu Dhabi 1101, United Arab Emirates (e-mail: )
| | - Taisser Atrak
- Department of Pediatrics, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- SSMC Hospital in partnership with Mayo Clinic; and Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ashraf Abuobayda
- Department of Pediatrics, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- SSMC Hospital in partnership with Mayo Clinic; and Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nabil Elmansoury
- Department of Pediatrics, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Omar Elnakeib
- Department of Pediatrics, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Abhijeet Lonikar
- Department of Pediatrics, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- SSMC Hospital in partnership with Mayo Clinic; and Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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Silva ER, Shukla VV, Tindal R, Carlo WA, Travers CP. Association of Active Postnatal Care With Infant Survival Among Periviable Infants in the US. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2250593. [PMID: 36656583 PMCID: PMC9856598 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.50593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Active postnatal care has been associated with center differences in survival among periviable infants. Regional differences in outcomes among periviable infants in the US may be associated with differences in active postnatal care. OBJECTIVE To determine if regions with higher rates of active postnatal care will have higher gestational age-specific survival rates among periviable infants. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This cohort study included live births from 22 to 25 weeks' gestation weighing 400 to 999 g in the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) WONDER 2017 to 2020 (expanded) database. Infants with congenital anomalies were excluded. Active postnatal care was defined using the CDC definition of abnormal conditions of newborn as presence of any of the following: neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission, surfactant, assisted ventilation, antibiotics, and seizures. Data were analyzed from August to November 2022. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Regional gestational age-specific survival rates were compared with rates of active postnatal care in the 10 US Health and Human Services regions using Kendall τ test. RESULTS We included 41 707 periviable infants, of whom 32 674 (78%) were singletons and 19 467 (46.7%) were female. Among those studied 34 983 (83.9%) had evidence of active care, and 26 009 (62.6%) survived. Regional rates of active postnatal care were positively correlated with regional survival rates at 22 weeks' gestation (rτ[8] = 0.56; r2 = 0.31; P = .03) but the correlation was not significant at 23 weeks' gestation (rτ[8] = 0.47; r2 = 0.22; P = .07). There was no correlation between active care and survival at 24 or 25 weeks' gestation. Regional rates of both NICU admission and assisted ventilation following delivery were positively correlated with regional rates of survival at 22 weeks' gestation (both P < .05). Regional rates of antenatal corticosteroids exposure were also positively correlated with regional rates of survival at 22 weeks' gestation (rτ[8] = 0.60; r2 = 0.36; P = .02). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In this cohort study of 41 707 periviable infants, regional differences in rates of active postnatal care, neonatal intensive care unit admission, provision of assisted ventilation and antenatal corticosteroid exposure were moderately correlated with survival at 22 weeks' gestation. Further studies focused on individual-level factors associated with active periviable care are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emani R. Silva
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham
| | - Vivek V. Shukla
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham
| | - Rachel Tindal
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham
| | - Waldemar A. Carlo
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham
| | - Colm P. Travers
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham
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Frier EM, Lin C, Reynolds RM, Allegaert K, Been JV, Fraser A, Gissler M, Einarsdóttir K, Florian L, Jacobsson B, Vogel JP, Zoega H, Bhattacharya S, Krispin E, Henning Pedersen L, Roberts D, Kuhle S, Fahey J, Mol BW, Burgner D, Schuit E, Sheikh A, Wood R, Gyamfi-Bannerman C, Miller JE, Duhig K, Lahti-Pulkkinen M, Hadar E, Wright J, Murray SR, Stock SJ. Consortium for the Study of Pregnancy Treatments (Co-OPT): An international birth cohort to study the effects of antenatal corticosteroids. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282477. [PMID: 36862657 PMCID: PMC9980789 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) are widely prescribed to improve outcomes following preterm birth. Significant knowledge gaps surround their safety, long-term effects, optimal timing and dosage. Almost half of women given ACS give birth outside the "therapeutic window" and have not delivered over 7 days later. Overtreatment with ACS is a concern, as evidence accumulates of risks of unnecessary ACS exposure. METHODS The Consortium for the Study of Pregnancy Treatments (Co-OPT) was established to address research questions surrounding safety of medications in pregnancy. We created an international birth cohort containing information on ACS exposure and pregnancy and neonatal outcomes by combining data from four national/provincial birth registers and one hospital database, and follow-up through linked population-level data from death registers and electronic health records. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The Co-OPT ACS cohort contains 2.28 million pregnancies and babies, born in Finland, Iceland, Israel, Canada and Scotland, between 1990 and 2019. Births from 22 to 45 weeks' gestation were included; 92.9% were at term (≥ 37 completed weeks). 3.6% of babies were exposed to ACS (67.0% and 77.9% of singleton and multiple births before 34 weeks, respectively). Rates of ACS exposure increased across the study period. Of all ACS-exposed babies, 26.8% were born at term. Longitudinal childhood data were available for 1.64 million live births. Follow-up includes diagnoses of a range of physical and mental disorders from the Finnish Hospital Register, diagnoses of mental, behavioural, and neurodevelopmental disorders from the Icelandic Patient Registers, and preschool reviews from the Scottish Child Health Surveillance Programme. The Co-OPT ACS cohort is the largest international birth cohort to date with data on ACS exposure and maternal, perinatal and childhood outcomes. Its large scale will enable assessment of important rare outcomes such as perinatal mortality, and comprehensive evaluation of the short- and long-term safety and efficacy of ACS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily M. Frier
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Chun Lin
- Usher Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca M. Reynolds
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Karel Allegaert
- Department of Development and Regeneration & Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jasper V. Been
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Paediatrics / Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology / Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC Sophia Children’s Hospital, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Abigail Fraser
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School and MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit at the University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Mika Gissler
- THL Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Department of Knowledge Brokers, Helsinki, Finland
- Region Stockholm, Academic Primary Health Care Centre, Stockholm, Sweden
- Karolinska Institute, Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristjana Einarsdóttir
- Centre of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavík, Iceland
| | - Lani Florian
- Moray House School of Education and Sport, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Bo Jacobsson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Clinical Science, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Genetics and Bioinformatics, Domain of Health Data and Digitalization, Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Joshua P. Vogel
- Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Helga Zoega
- Centre of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavík, Iceland
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine & Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sohinee Bhattacharya
- Aberdeen Centre for Women’s Health Research, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Eyal Krispin
- Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Lars Henning Pedersen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Devender Roberts
- Family Health Division, Liverpool Women’s Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Stefan Kuhle
- Departments of Pediatrics and Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - John Fahey
- Reproductive Care Program of Nova Scotia, IWK Health, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Ben W. Mol
- Aberdeen Centre for Women’s Health Research, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
- Ritchie Centre, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - David Burgner
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Royal Children’s Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Melbourne University, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ewoud Schuit
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Aziz Sheikh
- Usher Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Rachael Wood
- Usher Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Public Health Scotland, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Cynthia Gyamfi-Bannerman
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, UC San Diego Health Sciences, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Jessica E. Miller
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Royal Children’s Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Melbourne University, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kate Duhig
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Marius Lahti-Pulkkinen
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- THL Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Department of Knowledge Brokers, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Psychology and Logopedics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eran Hadar
- Helen Schneider Hospital for Women, Rabin Medical Center, Petach-Tikva, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - John Wright
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Bradford, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah R. Murray
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah J. Stock
- Usher Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Vidavalur R, Hussain Z, Hussain N. Association of Survival at 22 Weeks' Gestation With Use of Antenatal Corticosteroids and Mode of Delivery in the United States. JAMA Pediatr 2023; 177:90-93. [PMID: 36315137 PMCID: PMC9623480 DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2022.3951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
This cross-sectional study reports recent trends in US national live births at 22 completed weeks’ gestational age and analyzes the association of antenatal corticosteroid use and cesarean delivery with birth-linked survival at birth certificate reporting time, 27 days of life, and 364 days of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramesh Vidavalur
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Cayuga Medical Center/Weill Cornell Medicine, Ithaca, New York
| | - Zeenat Hussain
- New England School of Osteopathic Medicine, Biddeford, Maine
| | - Naveed Hussain
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington
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Assessing shared decision making during antenatal consultations regarding extreme prematurity. J Perinatol 2023; 43:29-33. [PMID: 36284208 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-022-01542-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess whether antenatal decisions regarding the neonatal care at birth for extremely preterm infants are more likely to be made when using shared decision-making (SDM)-style consultations compared to standard consultations. STUDY DESIGN In 2015, we implemented a clinical practice guideline promoting SDM use within antenatal consultations in our single-centre university-based perinatal unit. We conducted a prospective cohort study with a retrospective chart review based on data collected from all pregnant women presenting to obstetrical triage between 22 + 0 and 25 + 6 weeks gestation between September 2015 and June 2018. RESULT Two-hundred-and-seventeen cases presented; 137 received antenatal consultations with 82 (60%) being SDM-style. Decisions were frequently made (88%; 120/137) after the consultations, with no significant difference between consultation style (RR 1.08, 95% CI [0.95-1.26], p = 0.28). CONCLUSION The provision of either an SDM-style or a standard antenatal consultation seemed to comparably facilitate the reaching of a care decision.
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"We Absolutely Had the Impression That It Was Our Decision"-A Qualitative Study with Parents of Critically Ill Infants Who Participated in End-of-Life Decision Making. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 10:children10010046. [PMID: 36670597 PMCID: PMC9856896 DOI: 10.3390/children10010046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Guidelines recommend shared decision making (SDM) between neonatologists and parents when a decision has to be made about the continuation of life-sustaining treatment (LST). In a previous study, we found that neonatologists and parents at a German Level-III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit performed SDM to a variable but overall small extent. However, we do not know whether parents in Germany prefer an extent of more or sharing. METHODS We performed a qualitative interview study with parents who participated in our first study. We analyzed the semi-structured interviews with qualitative content analysis according to Kuckartz. RESULTS The participation in medical decision making (MDM) varied across cases. Overall, neonatologists and parents conducted SDM in most cases only to a small extent. All parents appreciated their experience independent of how much they were involved in MDM. The parents who experienced a small extent of sharing were glad that they were protected by neonatologists from having to decide, shielding them from a conflict of interest. The parents who experienced a large extent of sharing especially valued that they were able to fulfil their parental duties even if that meant partaking in a decision to forgo LST. DISCUSSION Other studies have also found a variety of possibilities for parents to partake in end-of-life decision making (EOL-DM). Our results suggest that parents do not have a uniform preference for one specific decision-making approach, but rather different parents appreciate their individual experience regardless of the model for DM. CONCLUSION SDM is apparently not a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, neonatologists and parents have to adapt the decision-making process to the parents' individual needs and preferences for autonomy and protection. Therefore, SDM should not be prescribed as a uniform standard in medico-ethical guidelines, but rather as a flexible guidance for DM for critically ill patients in neonatology.
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Vallant N, Haffenden V, Peatman O, Khan H, Lee G, Thakkar H, Yardley I. Outcomes for necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) in babies born at the threshold of viability: a case-control study. BMJ Paediatr Open 2022; 6:10.1136/bmjpo-2022-001583. [PMID: 36645754 PMCID: PMC9717317 DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2022-001583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The threshold for active management of babies born prematurely in the UK is currently 22 weeks. The optimal management strategy for necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) in babies born at or near this threshold remains unclear. AIM To review our institutional experience of babies born <24 weeks diagnosed with NEC, identify risk factors for NEC, and compare outcomes with a control cohort. METHODS All infants born <24 weeks gestation January 2015-December 2021 were identified. Babies diagnosed with NEC were defined as cases and babies with no NEC diagnosis as controls. Patient demographics, clinical features, complications and outcomes were extracted from the medical record and compared between cases and controls. RESULTS Of 56 babies, 31 (55.3%) were treated for NEC. There was no difference in NEC-specific risk factors between cases and controls. 17 babies (30.4%) underwent surgery, of these, 11/17 (64.7%) presented with a C reactive protein rise and 11/17 (64.7%) a fall in platelet count. Pneumatosis intestinalis (3/17 (17.7%)) or pneumoperitoneum (3/17 (17.7%)) were present in only a minority of cases. Abdominal ultrasound demonstrated intestinal perforation in 8/8 cases. The surgical complication rate was 5/17 (29.4%). There was no difference in the incidence of intraventricular haemorrhage, periventricular leukomalacia and survival to discharge between the groups. CONCLUSIONS The diagnosis of NEC in infants born <24 weeks gestation is challenging with inconsistent clinical and radiological features. Ultrasound scanning is a useful imaging modality. Mortality was comparable regardless of a diagnosis of NEC. Low gestational age is not a contraindication to surgical intervention in NEC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Vallant
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Evelina London Children's Healthcare, London, UK
| | - Verity Haffenden
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Evelina London Children's Healthcare, London, UK
| | - Oliver Peatman
- Department of Neonatal and Perinatal Medicine, Evelina London Children's Healthcare, London, UK
| | - Hammad Khan
- Department of Neonatal and Perinatal Medicine, Evelina London Children's Healthcare, London, UK
| | - Geraint Lee
- Department of Neonatal and Perinatal Medicine, Evelina London Children's Healthcare, London, UK
| | - Hemanshoo Thakkar
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Evelina London Children's Healthcare, London, UK
| | - Iain Yardley
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Evelina London Children's Healthcare, London, UK.,Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College, London, UK
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Krick JA, Feltman DM, Arnolds M. Decision-Making for Extremely Preterm Infants: A Qualitative Systematic Review. J Pediatr 2022; 251:6-16. [PMID: 35940293 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2022.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To synthesize and describe important elements of decision-making during antenatal consultation for threatened preterm delivery at the margin of gestational viability. STUDY DESIGN Data sources including PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and CINAHL Plus were searched. We included all qualitative literature published on decision-making from 1990 to July 2021. Two authors independently screened and evaluated each study using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist; studies reaching moderate and high quality were included. We developed an extraction tool to collect and categorize data from each qualitative article, then used thematic analysis to analyze and describe the findings. RESULTS Twenty-five articles incorporating the views of 504 providers and 352 parents were included for final review. Thematic analysis revealed 4 main themes describing the experience of health care providers and parents participating in decision-making: factors that influence decision-making, information sharing, building a partnership, and making the decision. Parents and providers were not always in agreement upon which elements were most essential to the process of decision-making. Articles published in languages other than English were excluded. CONCLUSIONS Qualitative literature highlighting key factors which are important during antenatal counseling can inform and guide providers through the process of shared decision-making. Communicating clear, honest, and balanced information; avoiding artificially dichotomized options; and focusing on partnership building with families will help providers use the antenatal consultation to reach personalized decisions for each infant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanne A Krick
- Department of Pediatrics, Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, TX.
| | - Dalia M Feltman
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Evanston Hospital, NorthShore University Health System, Evanston, IL; Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Marin Arnolds
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
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Wood SJ, Coughlin K, Cheng A. Extremely low gestational age neonates and resuscitation: survey on perspectives of Canadian neonatologists. J Perinat Med 2022; 50:1256-1263. [PMID: 35822724 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2022-0089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Resuscitation care planning for extremely low gestational age neonates (ELGANs) is complex and ethically charged. Increasing survival at lower gestational ages has had a significant impact on this complexity. It also has an impact on healthcare resource utilization and policy development in Canada. This study sought to determine the current attitudes and practices of neonatologists in Canada, and to assess moral distress associated with resuscitation decisions in the ELGAN population. It also aimed to explore the perspectives of adopting a shared decision-making approach where further data with regard to best interests and prognosis are gathered in an individualized manner after birth. METHODS Neonatologists in Canadian level III NICUs were surveyed in 2020. RESULTS Amongst the 65 responses, 78% expressed moral distress when parents request non-resuscitation at 24 weeks. Uncertainty around long-term outcomes in an era with improved chances of morbidity-free survival was the most prominent factor contributing to moral distress. 70% felt less moral distress deciding goals of care after the baby's initial resuscitation and preferred an individualized approach to palliation decisions based on postnatal course and assessment. CONCLUSIONS While most current guidelines still support the option of non-resuscitation for infants born at less than 25 weeks, we show evidence of moral distress among Canadian neonatologists that suggests the consideration of routine resuscitation from 24 weeks and above is a more ethical approach in the current era of improved outcomes. Canadian neonatologists identified less moral distress when goals of care are developed postnatally, with availability of more evidence for prognostication, instead of antenatally based primarily on gestational age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacie J Wood
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Kevin Coughlin
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Paediatrics, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
| | - Anita Cheng
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Paediatrics, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada
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Syltern J, Ursin L, Solberg B, Støen R. Postponed Withholding: Balanced Decision-Making at the Margins of Viability. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOETHICS : AJOB 2022; 22:15-26. [PMID: 33998962 DOI: 10.1080/15265161.2021.1925777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Advances in neonatology have led to improved survival for periviable infants. Immaturity still carries a high risk of short- and long-term harms, and uncertainty turns provision of life support into an ethical dilemma. Shared decision-making with parents has gained ground. However, the need to start immediate life support and the ensuing difficulty of withdrawing treatment stands in tension with the possibility of a fair decision-making process. Both the parental "instinct of saving" and "withdrawal resistance" involved can preclude shared decision-making. To help health care personnel and empower parents, we propose a novel approach labeled "postponed withholding." In the absence of a prenatal advance directive, life support is started at birth, followed by planned redirection to palliative care after one week, unless parents, after a thorough counseling process, actively ask for continued life support. Despite the emotional challenges, this approach can facilitate ethically balanced decision-making processes in the gray zone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janicke Syltern
- Norwegian University of Science and Technology
- St Olavs Hospital University Hospital in Trondheim
| | - Lars Ursin
- The Norwegian University of Science and Technology
| | | | - Ragnhild Støen
- Norwegian University of Science and Technology
- St Olavs Hospital University Hospital in Trondheim
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Gallagher K, Shaw C, Parisaei M, Marlow N, Aladangady N. Attitudes About Extremely Preterm Birth Among Obstetric and Neonatal Health Care Professionals in England: A Qualitative Study. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2241802. [PMID: 36374500 PMCID: PMC9664260 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.41802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Variation in attitudes between health care professionals involved in the counseling of parents facing extremely preterm birth (<24 wk gestational age) may lead to parental confusion and professional misalignment. OBJECTIVE To explore the attitudes of health care professionals involved in the counseling of parents facing preterm birth on the treatment of extremely preterm infants. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This qualitative study used Q methods to explore the attitudes of neonatal nurses, neonatologists, midwives, and obstetricians involved in the care of extremely preterm infants in 4 UK National Health Service perinatal centers between February 10, 2020, and April 30, 2021. Each participating center had a tertiary level neonatal unit and maternity center. Individuals volunteered participation through choosing to complete the study following a presentation by researchers at each center. A link to the online Q study was emailed to all potential participants by local principal investigators. Participants ranked 53 statements about the treatment of extremely preterm infants in an online quasi-normal distribution grid from strongly agree (6) to strongly disagree (-6). MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Distinguishing factors per professional group (representing different attitudes) identified through by-person factor analysis of Q sort-data were the primary outcome. Areas of shared agreement (consensus) between professional groups were also explored. Q sorts achieving a factor loading of greater than 0.46 (P < .01) on a given factor were included. RESULTS In total, 155 health care professionals volunteered participation (128 [82.6%] women; mean [SD] age, 41.6 [10.2] years, mean [SD] experience, 14.1 [9.6] years). Four distinguishing factors were identified between neonatal nurses, 3 for midwives, 5 for neonatologists, and 4 for obstetricians. Analysis of factors within and between professional groups highlighted significant variation in attitudes of professionals toward parental engagement in decision-making, the perceived importance of potential disability in decision-making, and the use of medical technology. Areas of consensus highlighted that most professionals disagreed with statements suggesting disability equates to reduced quality of life. The statement suggesting the parents' decision was considered the most important when considering neonatal resuscitation was placed in the neutral (middistribution) position by all professionals. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE The findings of this qualitative study suggest that parental counseling at extremely low gestations is a complex scenario further complicated by the differences in attitudes within and between professional disciplines toward treatment approaches. The development of multidisciplinary training encompassing all professional groups may facilitate a more consistent and individualized approach toward parental engagement in decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Gallagher
- EGA Institute for Women’s Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Chloe Shaw
- EGA Institute for Women’s Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maryam Parisaei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Homerton Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Neil Marlow
- EGA Institute for Women’s Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Narendra Aladangady
- Department of Neonatology, Homerton Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Paediatrics, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, QMUL, London, United Kingdom
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Cai Q, Wang H, Chen D, Xu W, Yang R, Xu X. Effect of family-centred care on parental mental health and parent-infant interactions for preterm infants: a systematic review protocol. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e062004. [PMID: 36198456 PMCID: PMC9535193 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-062004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Unexpected premature delivery and separation from preterm infants are common problems that parents of preterm infants must handle with. Parents of preterm infants may suffer from severe psychological distress. Family-centred care (FCC) can effectively ease parents' psychological distress and strengthen connections between parents and their preterm infants. The purpose of this systematic review will be to systematically review and evaluate the impacts of FCC interventions on the mental health of parents of preterm infants and the parent-infant relationship. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This protocol for this systematic review will be conducted in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocol. We will search databases including PubMed, Embase, The Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Scopus and ProQuest, CNKI, SinoMed and Wanfang Data from 1 July 2012 to 1 July 2022. An additional search of OpenGrey will be conducted to identify grey literature. Randomised controlled trials related to FCC inventions for preterm infants≤37 weeks' gestational age and their parents will be included, and the outcome measures will be parental mental health and parent-infant interaction. Two reviewers will independently conduct title and abstract screening, full-text screening, data extraction and study quality assessment. Risk of bias for the studies will be evaluated using the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias V.2.0. Any disagreements will be solved by a third reviewer to reach a consensus. If appropriate, a meta-analysis will be conducted to assess the effect of FCC on parental mental health and parent-infant relationship. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Research ethics approval will not be required for this review since it will not involve the collection of primary data and will only use published literature. The results will be disseminated in a peer-reviewed journal through publication or by presentation at relevant academic conference. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42022299203.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Cai
- Faculty of Nursing, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Nursing Department, Women's Hospital School of Medicine Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hua Wang
- Nursing Department, Women's Hospital School of Medicine Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Danqi Chen
- Faculty of Nursing, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Nursing Department, Women's Hospital School of Medicine Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wenli Xu
- Obstetrics Department, Haining Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Branch of Women's Hospital School of Medicine Zhejiang University, Haining, Zhejiang, China
| | - Rui Yang
- Faculty of Nursing, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Nursing Department, Women's Hospital School of Medicine Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xinfen Xu
- Nursing Department, Women's Hospital School of Medicine Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Obstetrics Department, Haining Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Branch of Women's Hospital School of Medicine Zhejiang University, Haining, Zhejiang, China
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Premadeva I, Gardham A, Faller A, Selkirk L. Fifteen-minute consultation: How to approach the withdrawal of neonatal intensive care. Arch Dis Child Educ Pract Ed 2022; 107:338-343. [PMID: 34045287 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2021-321667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Withdrawal of life-sustaining support on the neonatal unit presents a set of unique challenges specific in this age group of patients. This article aims to provide an overview of the key factors that should be considered during this process. It explores the practicalities of care delivery that reflects the psychological impact of undergoing end-of-life care on parents and team members. It will also highlight the role of clinical genetics that can be used to understand the underlying disease pathology and therefore can be a valuable tool in the difficult decision-making process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irnthu Premadeva
- Neonatal Unit, Luton and Dunstable Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Luton, UK
| | - Alice Gardham
- North West Thames Regional Genetics Service, Northwick Park Hospital, Harrow, London, UK
| | - Adele Faller
- Neonatal Unit, Luton and Dunstable Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Luton, UK
| | - Lisa Selkirk
- Neonatal Unit, Luton and Dunstable Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Luton, UK
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Chawla S, Wyckoff MH, Rysavy MA, Patel RM, Chowdhury D, Natarajan G, Laptook AR, Lakshminrusimha S, Bell EF, Shankaran S, Van Meurs KP, Ambalavanan N, Greenberg RG, Younge N, Werner EF, Das A, Carlo WA. Association of Antenatal Steroid Exposure at 21 to 22 Weeks of Gestation With Neonatal Survival and Survival Without Morbidities. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2233331. [PMID: 36156145 PMCID: PMC9513645 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.33331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Importance The provision of antenatal corticosteroids to pregnant patients at gestational age (GA) 22 6/7 weeks or less remains controversial and lacks support from randomized clinical trials. Objective To compare rates of survival and survival without major morbidities among infants born at GA 22 0/7 to 23 6/7 weeks after exposure to antenatal steroids at 22 6/7 weeks' gestation or less vs no exposure to antenatal steroids. Design, Setting, and Participants This cohort study enrolled infants born at GA 22 0/7 to 23 6/7 weeks between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2019, at centers in the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Neonatal Research Network. Infants who did not receive intensive care and infants with antenatal steroid exposure after GA 22 6/7 weeks were excluded. Exposure Infants were classified as having no, partial, or complete exposure to antenatal steroids. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was survival to discharge. The main secondary outcome was survival without major neonatal morbidity. The associations of differential exposures to antenatal steroids with outcomes were evaluated using logistic regression, adjusting for GA, sex, race, maternal education, small for GA status, mode of delivery, multiple birth, prolonged rupture of membranes, year of birth, and Neonatal Research Network center. Results A total of 431 infants (mean [SD] GA, 22.6 [0.5] weeks; 232 [53.8%] boys) were included, with 110 infants (25.5%) receiving no antenatal steroids, 80 infants (18.6%) receiving partial antenatal steroids, and 241 infants (55.9%) receiving complete antenatal steroids. Seventeen infants were exposed to antenatal steroids at GA 21 weeks. Among infants exposed to complete antenatal steroids, 130 (53.9%) survived to discharge, compared with 30 infants (37.5%) with partial antenatal steroid exposure and 239 infants (35.5%) with no antenatal steroids. Infants born after complete antenatal steroid exposure, compared with those without antenatal steroid exposure, were more likely to survive to discharge (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.95 [95% CI, 1.07-3.56]) and to survive without major morbidity (aOR, 2.74 [95% CI, 1.19-6.30]). Conclusions and Relevance In this retrospective cohort study, among infants born between GA 22 0/7 and 23 6/7 weeks who received intensive care, exposure to a complete course of antenatal steroids at GA 22 6/7 weeks or less was independently associated with greater odds of survival and survival without major morbidity. These data suggest that the use of antenatal steroids in patients at GA 22 6/7 weeks or less could be beneficial when active treatment is considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjay Chawla
- Departments of Pediatrics, Central Michigan University, Wayne State University, Children’s Hospital of Michigan, Detroit
| | - Myra H. Wyckoff
- Department of Pediatrics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Matthew A. Rysavy
- Department of Pediatrics, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
| | - Ravi Mangal Patel
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | - Girija Natarajan
- Departments of Pediatrics, Central Michigan University, Wayne State University, Children’s Hospital of Michigan, Detroit
| | - Abbot R. Laptook
- Department of Pediatrics, Women and Infants Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island
| | | | | | - Seetha Shankaran
- Department of Pediatrics, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Krisa P. Van Meurs
- Division of Neonatal and Developmental Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
| | | | | | - Noelle Younge
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Erika F. Werner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women and Infants Hospital, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Abhik Das
- Social, Statistical, and Environmental Sciences Unit, RTI International, Rockville, Maryland
| | - Waldemar A. Carlo
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham
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Abstract
Despite improvements in the mortality rates of preterm infants, rates of germinal matrix intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) have remained static with an overall incidence of 25% in infants less than 32 weeks. The importance of the lesion relates primarily to the underlying injury to the developing brain and the associated long-term neurodevelopmental consequences. This clinical-orientated review focuses on the pathogenesis of IVH and discusses the evidence behind proposed prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisling A Garvey
- Department of Pediatric Newborn Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brian H Walsh
- Department of Pediatric Newborn Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Neonatology, Cork University Maternity Hospital, Cork, Ireland
| | - Terrie E Inder
- Department of Pediatric Newborn Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Siffel C, Hirst AK, Sarda SP, Kuzniewicz MW, Li DK. The clinical burden of extremely preterm birth in a large medical records database in the United States: Mortality and survival associated with selected complications. Early Hum Dev 2022; 171:105613. [PMID: 35785690 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2022.105613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preterm birth is a leading cause of infant mortality, particularly for those born extremely prematurely (EP; <28 weeks' gestational age [GA]). Survivors are predisposed to complications such as bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), chronic lung disease (CLD), intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). AIMS To examine the epidemiology, complications, and mortality/survival among EP infants. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective analysis of electronic medical records from the Kaiser Permanente Northern California database. SUBJECTS EP infants live-born between 22 and <28 weeks' GA from 1997 to 2016. OUTCOME MEASURES Cumulative all-cause mortality/survival were analyzed and stratified by GA (22 to <24, 24 to <26, 26 to <28 weeks), complications (BPD/CLD, IVH, ROP), and birth period (1997 to 2003, 2004 to 2009, 2010 to 2016). Cox proportional hazard models were constructed to assess the mortality risk associated with BPD/CLD or IVH. RESULTS 2154 EP infants were identified; of these, 916 deaths were recorded. Mortality was highest during the first 3 months (41.7 % cumulative mortality), and few were reported after 2 years (42.5 % cumulative mortality). Mortality decreased with higher GA and over more recent birth periods. BPD/CLD and IVH grade 3/4 were associated with increased mortality risk versus no complications (adjusted hazard ratios 1.41 and 1.78, respectively). CONCLUSIONS The risk of mortality is high during the first few months of life for EP infants, and is even higher for those with BPD and IVH. Despite an overall trend toward increased survival for EP infants, strategies targeting survival of EP infants with these complications are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csaba Siffel
- Global Evidence and Outcomes, Takeda Development Center Americas, Lexington, MA, USA; College of Allied Health Sciences, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA.
| | - Andrew K Hirst
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Sujata P Sarda
- Global Evidence and Outcomes, Takeda Development Center Americas, Lexington, MA, USA
| | | | - De-Kun Li
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
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Soni R, Tscherning Wel-Wel C, Robertson NJ. Neuroscience meets nurture: challenges of prematurity and the critical role of family-centred and developmental care as a key part of the neuroprotection care bundle. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2022; 107:242-249. [PMID: 33972264 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2020-319450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Advances in neonatal-perinatal medicine have resulted in increased survival at lower gestations. Although the incidence of germinal matrix haemorrhage-intraventricular haemorrhage and cystic periventricular leucomalacia is reducing, a new phenotype of preterm brain injury has emerged consisting of a combination of destructive and dysmaturational effects. Consequently, severe neurological disability is reported at a lower rate than previously, but the overall morbidity associated with premature birth continues to present a large global burden and contributes significantly to increased financial costs to health systems and families. In this review, we examine the developmental milestones of fetal brain development and how preterm birth can disrupt this trajectory. We review common morbidities associated with premature birth today. Although drug-based and cell-based neuroprotective therapies for the preterm brain are under intense study, we outline basic, sustainable and effective non-medical, family-centred and developmental care strategies which have the potential to improve neurodevelopmental outcomes for this population and need to be considered part of the future neuroprotection care bundle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roopali Soni
- Neonatology, Sidra Medical and Research Center, Doha, Ad Dawhah, Qatar .,Department of Neonatology, Mediclinic Parkview Hospital, Dubai, UAE
| | - Charlotte Tscherning Wel-Wel
- Neonatology, Sidra Medical and Research Center, Doha, Ad Dawhah, Qatar.,Center of Physiopathology Toulouse-Purpan(CPTP), University of Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Nicola J Robertson
- Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK.,Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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45
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Wood K, Di Stefano LM, Mactier H, Bates SE, Wilkinson D. Individualised decision making: interpretation of risk for extremely preterm infants-a survey of UK neonatal professionals. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2022; 107:281-288. [PMID: 34413095 PMCID: PMC9046748 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2021-322147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The British Association of Perinatal Medicine (BAPM) published a revised framework for perinatal management of extremely preterm infants (EPIs) in 2019. We aimed to assess UK neonatal professionals' interpretation of elements of this framework, as well as the consistency of their estimates of outcome for EPIs. METHODS An online survey gave participants five cases involving anticipated extremely preterm birth with different favourable and unfavourable risk factors. Respondents were asked to assign a risk category and management option using the BAPM framework and to estimate the chance of survival if the baby received active resuscitation and the chance of severe disability if they survived. RESULTS Respondents were consistent in interpretation of risk categories. The majority would follow parental wishes about management. Management decisions did not always correspond with risk assessment, with less inclination to recommend palliative (comfort) care. There were wide estimates of survival or severe disability (5%-90%) with consultants providing lower estimates of severe disability than other groups. CONCLUSION UK neonatal professionals deferred to parental wishes in the cases presented, indicating an emphasis on shared decision making. However, they did not necessarily use the risk stratification approach for management decisions. Variation in estimates of outcome raises questions about the accuracy of informed decision making and suggests support is needed for UK clinicians to incorporate risk factors into individualised counselling. There may be value in validating existing online risk calculators for UK infants or in developing a UK specific risk model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Wood
- Department of Newborn Care, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Lydia Mietta Di Stefano
- Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Helen Mactier
- Department of Neonatology, Princess Royal Maternity, Glasgow, UK,School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Sarah Elizabeth Bates
- Department of Women & Childrens, Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Swindon, UK
| | - Dominic Wilkinson
- Department of Newborn Care, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK .,Uehiro Centre for Practical Ethics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Usuda H, Carter S, Takahashi T, Newnham JP, Fee EL, Jobe AH, Kemp MW. Perinatal care for the extremely preterm infant. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2022; 27:101334. [PMID: 35577715 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2022.101334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Being born preterm (prior to 37 weeks of completed gestation) is a leading cause of childhood death up to five years of age, and is responsible for the demise of around one million preterm infants each year. Rates of prematurity, which range from approximately 5 to 18% of births, are increasing in most countries. Babies born extremely preterm (less than 28 weeks' gestation) and in particular, in the periviable (200/7-256/7 weeks) period, are at the highest risk of death, or the development of long-term disabilities. The perinatal care of extremely preterm infants and their mothers raises a number of clinical, technical, and ethical challenges. Focusing on 'micropremmies', or those born in the periviable period, this paper provides an update regarding the aetiology and impacts of periviable preterm birth, advances in the antenatal, intrapartum, and acute post-natal management of these infants, and a review of counselling/support approaches for engaging with the infant's family. It concludes with an overview of emerging technology that may assist in improving outcomes for this at-risk population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haruo Usuda
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, 6009, Australia; Centre for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan
| | - Sean Carter
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - Tsukasa Takahashi
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, 6009, Australia; Centre for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan
| | - John P Newnham
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
| | - Erin L Fee
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, 6009, Australia
| | - Alan H Jobe
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, 6009, Australia; Perinatal Research, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Centre, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Matthew W Kemp
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, 6009, Australia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 119228, Singapore; School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, 6150, Australia; Centre for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan.
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47
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Norman M, Jonsson B, Wallström L, Sindelar R. Respiratory support of infants born at 22-24 weeks of gestational age. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2022; 27:101328. [PMID: 35400604 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2022.101328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Lung immaturity and acute respiratory failure are the major problems in the care of extremely preterm infants. Most infants with gestational age (GA) 22-24 weeks will need mechanical ventilation and many will depend on some type of respiratory support, invasive and non-invasive for extended periods. There is ongoing gap in knowledge regarding optimal respiratory support and applying strategies that are effective in more mature populations is not easy or even suitable because lung maturation differs in smaller infants. Better strategies on how to avoid lung damage and to promote growth and development of the immature lung are warranted since increased survival is accompanied by increasing rates of bronchopulmonary dysplasia and concerns over long-standing reductions in lung function. This review focuses on some aspects of respiratory care of infants born at 22-24 weeks of GA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikael Norman
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Neonatal Medicine, S3:03 Norrbacka, Karolinska University Hospital, SE-171 76, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Baldvin Jonsson
- Department of Neonatal Medicine, S3:03 Norrbacka, Karolinska University Hospital, SE-171 76, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Linda Wallström
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Department of Pediatrics, Uppsala University Hospital, SE-751 85, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Richard Sindelar
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Department of Pediatrics, Uppsala University Hospital, SE-751 85, Uppsala, Sweden
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Srinivasan S, Aggarwal N, Makhaik S, Jhobta A, Kapila S, Bhoil R. Role of lung ultrasound in diagnosing and differentiating transient tachypnea of the newborn and respiratory distress syndrome in preterm neonates. J Ultrason 2022; 22:e1-e5. [PMID: 35449705 PMCID: PMC9009341 DOI: 10.15557/jou.2022.0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim To evaluate the accuracy of lung ultrasound in diagnosing and differentiating transient tachypnea of the newborn and respiratory distress syndrome in preterm neonates. Material and methods This was a single-center study. From January 2020 to June 2021. A total of 100 preterm neonates, admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit with symptoms of respiratory distress within six hours of birth, including 50 diagnosed with transient tachypnea of the newborn and 50 with respiratory distress syndrome on the basis of clinical examination, laboratory testing, chest X-rays, were recruited in the study. Lung ultrasound was performed in each neonate by a senior radiologist who was blinded to the clinical diagnosis. Lung ultrasound findings in both conditions were analyzed and compared. Results Pulmonary edema manifesting as alveolar-interstitial syndrome, double lung point sign and less commonly as white out lungs in the absence of consolidation has 100% sensitivity and specificity in diagnosing transient tachypnea of the newborn. A combination of three signs of consolidation with air or fluid bronchograms, white out lungs and absent spared areas has 100% sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing respiratory distress syndrome. Double lung point sign was seen only in infants suffering from transient tachypnea of the newborn and consolidation with air or fluid bronchograms only in cases of respiratory distress syndrome. Conclusion Lung ultrasound can accurately diagnose and reliably differentiate transient tachypnea of the newborn and respiratory distress syndrome in preterm neonates. It has advantages that cannot be replicated by chest radiography. Lung ultrasound may be used as an initial screening tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Srinivasan
- Department of Radiology, Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Neeti Aggarwal
- Department of Radiology, Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Sushma Makhaik
- Department of Radiology, Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Anupam Jhobta
- Department of Radiology, Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Sumala Kapila
- Department of Radiology, Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Rohit Bhoil
- Department of Radiology, Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India
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Shipley L, Hyliger G, Sharkey D. Temporal trends of in utero and early postnatal transfer of extremely preterm infants between 2011 and 2016: a UK population study. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2022; 107:201-205. [PMID: 34281936 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2021-322195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Early postnatal transfer (PNT) of extremely preterm infants is associated with adverse outcomes compared with in utero transfer (IUT). We aimed to explore recent national trends of IUT and early PNT. DESIGN Observational cohort study using the National Neonatal Research Database. SETTING Neonatal units in England, Scotland and Wales. PATIENTS Extremely preterm infants 23+0-27+6 weeks' gestation admitted for neonatal care from 2011 to 2016. MAIN OUTCOME The incidence of IUT or PNT within 72 hours of life. Secondary outcomes included mortality, hospital transfer level between centres and temporal changes across two equal epochs, 2011-2013 (epoch 1 (Ep1)) and 2014-2016 (epoch 2 (Ep2)). RESULTS 14 719 infants were included (Ep1=7363 and Ep2=7256); 4005 (27%) underwent IUT; and 3042 (20.7%) had PNT. IUTs decreased significantly between epochs from 28.3% (Ep1=2089) to 26.0% (Ep2=1916) (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.84 to 0.97, p<0.01). Conversely, PNTs increased from 19.8% (Ep1=1416) to 21.5% (Ep2=1581) (OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.20, p=0.01). PNTs between intensive care centres increased from 8.1% (Ep1=119) to 10.2% (Ep2=161, p=0.05). Mortality decreased from 21.6% (Ep1=1592) to 19.3% (Ep2=1421) (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.83 to 0.97, p=0.01). Survival to 90 days of age was significantly lower in infants undergoing PNT compared with IUT (HR 1.31, 95% CI 1.18 to 1.46), with the greatest differences observed in infants <25 weeks' gestational age. CONCLUSION In the UK, IUT of extremely preterm infants has significantly decreased over the study period with a parallel increase in early PNT. Strategies to reverse these trends, improve IUT pathways and optimise antenatal steroid use could significantly improve survival and reduce brain injury for these high-risk infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Shipley
- Academic Child Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Gillian Hyliger
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Nottingham Children's Hospital, Nottingham, UK
| | - Don Sharkey
- Academic Child Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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Verweij EJ, De Proost L, Hogeveen M, Reiss IKM, Verhagen AAE, Geurtzen R. Dutch guidelines on care for extremely premature infants: Navigating between personalisation and standardization. Semin Perinatol 2022; 46:151532. [PMID: 34839939 DOI: 10.1016/j.semperi.2021.151532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is no international consensus on what type of guideline is preferred for care at the limit of viability. We aimed to conceptualize what type of guideline is preferred by Dutch healthcare professionals: 1) none; 2) gestational-age-based; 3) gestational-age-based-plus; or 4) prognosis-based via a survey instrument. Additional questions were asked to explore the grey zone and attitudes towards treatment variation. FINDING 769 surveys were received. Most of the respondents (72.8%) preferred a gestational-age-based-plus guideline. Around 50% preferred 24+0/7 weeks gestational age as the lower limit of the grey zone, whereas 26+0/7 weeks was the most preferred upper limit. Professionals considered treatment variation acceptable when it is based upon parental values, but unacceptable when it is based upon the hospital's policy or the physician's opinion. CONCLUSION In contrast to the current Dutch guideline, our results suggest that there is a preference to take into account individual factors besides gestational age.
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Affiliation(s)
- E J Verweij
- Department of Obstetrics, LUMC, Albinusdreef 2, Leiden ZA 2333, the Netherlands; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, the Netherlands.
| | - Lien De Proost
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, the Netherlands; Department of Neonatology, Erasmus MC, the Netherlands; Department of Medical Ethics, Philosophy and History of Medicine, Erasmus MC, the Netherlands
| | - Marije Hogeveen
- Department of Neonatology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Amalia Children's Hospital, the Netherlands
| | - I K M Reiss
- Department of Neonatology, Erasmus MC, the Netherlands
| | - A A E Verhagen
- Department of Paediatrics, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Rosa Geurtzen
- Department of Neonatology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Amalia Children's Hospital, the Netherlands
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