A systematic review and meta-analysis of a brief delay in clamping the umbilical cord of preterm infants

Umbilical cord milking and delayed cord clamping for the prevention of neonatal hypoglycaemia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Placental management strategies such as umbilical cord milking and delayed cord clamping may provide a range of benefits for the newborn. The aim of this review was to assess the effectiveness of umbilical cord milking and delayed cord clamping for the prevention of neonatal hypoglycaemia.

METHODS

Three databases and five clinical trial registries were systematically reviewed to identify randomised controlled trials comparing umbilical cord milking or delayed cord clamping with control in term and preterm infants. The primary outcome was neonatal hypoglycaemia (study defined). Two independent reviewers conducted screening, data extraction and quality assessment. Quality of the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool (RoB-2). Certainty of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. Meta-analysis using a random effect model was done using Review Manager 5.4. The review was registered prospectively on PROSPERO (CRD42022356553).

RESULTS

Data from 71 studies and 14 268 infants were included in this review; 22 (2 537 infants) compared umbilical cord milking with control, and 50 studies (11 731 infants) compared delayed with early cord clamping. For umbilical cord milking there were no data on neonatal hypoglycaemia, and no differences between groups for any of the secondary outcomes. We found no evidence that delayed cord clamping reduced the incidence of hypoglycaemia (6 studies, 444 infants, RR = 0.87, CI: 0.58 to 1.30, p = 0.49, I2 = 0%). Delayed cord clamping was associated with a 27% reduction in neonatal mortality (15 studies, 3 041 infants, RR = 0.73, CI: 0.55 to 0.98, p = 0.03, I2 = 0%). We found no evidence for the effect of delayed cord clamping for any of the other outcomes. The certainty of evidence was low for all outcomes.

CONCLUSION

We found no data for the effectiveness of umbilical cord milking on neonatal hypoglycaemia, and no evidence that delayed cord clamping reduced the incidence of hypoglycaemia, but the certainty of the evidence was low.

Timing of umbilical cord occlusion, delayed vs early, in preterm babies: A randomized controlled trial (CODE-P Trial)

INTRODUCTION

Our hypothesis was that delayed cord clamping (DCC) (not earlier than 30 s; at 30-60 s) in premature neonates (born between 26.0 and 32.6 weeks of gestation), as compared with the usual early cord clamping (ECC), significantly reduces the need for blood transfusions and incidence of intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) without an increased rate of maternal postpartum haemorrhage.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A prospective, open-label, randomized, controlled trial was conducted at Vall d'Hebron Hospital from July 2014 to December 2018. All pregnant women at risk of impending preterm birth (≥26.0-<33.0 weeks of gestation) who were admitted to the obstetrics emergency department were evaluated for eligibility. If they met the eligibility criteria, they were invited to participate in the study and, if they agreed, they signed an informed consent. Patients were randomly assigned to one of two groups: ECC group and DCC group.

RESULTS

Our study included a total of 57 patients: 30 in the ECC group and 27 in the DCC group. Due to a lack of funding and low recruitment rates, the study was discontinued in 2018. Maternal characteristics and obstetric outcomes were similar between both groups. The intention-to-treat analysis did not reveal any differences between groups for neonatal red blood cell transfusions, neonatal IVH or maternal postpartum haemorrhage. There were no differences for secondary outcomes. Similarly, no differences were observed in the as-treated analysis.

CONCLUSION

The primary and secondary outcomes of our study were not achieved. Therefore, more meta-analysis and trials are needed to evaluate the appropriate timing of cord clamping in preterm birth.

Premature infants receiving delayed cord clamping with and without cord milking: a randomized control trial

BACKGROUND

Preterm infants often have long hospital stays and frequent blood tests; they often develop anemia requiring multiple blood transfusions. Placental transfusion via delayed cord clamping (DCC) or umbilical cord milking (UCM) helps increase blood volume. We hypothesized umbilical cord milking (UCM), together with DCC, would be superior in reducing blood transfusions.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the effects of DCC and DCC combined with UCM on hematologic outcomes among preterm infants.

METHODS

One hundred twenty singleton preterm infants born at 280/7- 336/7 weeks of gestation at Thammasat University Hospital were enrolled in an open-label, randomized, controlled trial. They were placed into three groups (1:1:1) by a block-of-three randomization: DCC for 45 s, DCC with UCM performed before clamping (DCM-B), and DCC with UCM performed after clamping (DCM-A). The primary outcomes were hematocrit levels and number of infants receiving blood transfusions during the first 28 days of life. Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) were secondary outcomes. Analyses were performed with an intent-to-treat approach.

RESULTS

One hundred twenty preterm infants were randomized. There was no statistically significant difference in neonatal outcomes; hematocrit on admission 54.0 ± 5.5, 53.3 ± 6.0, and 54.3 ± 5.8 (p = 0.88), receiving blood transfusions 25%, 20%, and 12.5% (p = 0.24), incidence of NEC 7.5, 0 and 10% (p = 0.78) in the DCC, DCM-B and DCM-A groups, respectively. There were no preterm infants with severe IVH, polycythemia, maternal or neonatal death.

CONCLUSION

The placental transfusion techniques utilized, DCC and DCC combined with UCM, provided the same benefits for preterm infants born at GA 28 and 33 weeks in terms of reducing the need for RBC transfusions, severities of IVH and incidence of NEC without increasing comorbidity.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

TCTR20190131002 . Registered 31 January 2019-Retrospectively registered.

Impact of Early Hemoglobin Levels on Neurodevelopment Outcomes of Two-Year-Olds in Very Preterm Children

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate, in very preterm infants, the hemoglobin (Hb) levels during the first 24 h and the neurodevelopment outcomes at 24 months of corrected age.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PATIENTS

We conducted a secondary analysis of the French national prospective and population-based cohort EPIPAGE-2. The eligible study participants were live-born singletons who were born before 32 weeks of gestational age, with early Hb levels who were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The early Hb levels for an outcome survival at 24 months of corrected age without neurodevelopmental impairment were measured. The secondary outcomes were survival at discharge and without severe neonatal morbidity.

RESULTS

Of the 2158 singletons of <32 weeks with mean early Hb levels of 15.4 (±2.4) g/dL, 1490 of the infants (69%) had a follow-up at two years of age. An early Hb of 15.2 g/dL is the minimum receiving operating characteristic curve at the 24 months risk-free level, but the area under the curve at 0.54 (close to 50%) indicates that this rate was not informative. In logistic regression, no association was found between early Hb levels and outcomes at two years of age (aOR 0.966; 95% CI [0.775-1.204]; p = 0.758) but rather there was a correlation found with severe morbidity (aOR 1.322; 95% CI [1.003-1.743]; p = 0.048). A risk stratification tree showed that male newborns of >26 weeks with Hb of <15.5 g/dL (n = 703) were associated with a poor outcome at 24 months (OR 1.9; CI: [1.5-2.4] p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Early low Hb levels are associated with major neonatal morbidities in VP singletons, but not with neurodevelopment outcomes at two years of age, except in male infants of >26 Weeks GA.

Impact of the implementation of the WHO Safe Childbirth Checklist on essential birth practices and adverse events in two Brazilian hospitals: a before and after study

OBJECTIVE

The WHO Safe Childbirth Checklist (SCC) is a promising initiative for safety in childbirth care, but the evidence about its impact on clinical outcomes is limited. This study analysed the impact of SCC on essential birth practices (EBPs), obstetric complications and adverse events (AEs) in hospitals of different profiles.

DESIGN

Quasi-experimental, time-series study and pre/post intervention.

SETTING

Two hospitals in North-East Brazil, one at a tertiary level (H1) and another at a secondary level (H2).

PARTICIPANTS

1440 women and their newborns, excluding those with congenital malformations.

INTERVENTIONS

The implementation of the SCC involved its cross-cultural adaptation, raising awareness with videos and posters, learning sessions about the SCC and auditing and feedback on adherence indicators.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Simple and composite indicators related to seven EBPs, 3 complications and 10 AEs were monitored for 1 year, every 2 weeks, totalling 1440 observed deliveries.

RESULTS

The checklist was adopted in 83.3% (n=300) of deliveries in H1 and in 33.6% (n=121) in H2. The hospital with the highest adoption rate for SCC (H1) showed greater adherence to EBPs (improvement of 50.9%;p<0.001) and greater reduction in clinical outcome indicators compared with its baseline: percentage of deliveries with severe complications (reduction of 30.8%;p=0.005); Adverse Outcome Index (reduction of 25.6%;p=0.049); Weighted Adverse Outcome Score (reduction of 39.5%;p<0.001); Severity Index (reduction of 18.4%;p<0.001). In H2, whose adherence to the SCC was lower, there was an improvement of 24.7% compared with before SCC implementation in the composite indicator of EBPs (p=0.002) and a reduction of 49.2% in severe complications (p=0.027), but there was no significant reduction in AEs.

CONCLUSIONS

A multifaceted SCC-based intervention can be effective in improving adherence to EBPs and clinical outcomes in childbirth. The context and adherence to the SCC seem to modulate its impact, working better in a hospital of higher complexity.

Delayed cord clamping in small for gestational age preterm infants

BACKGROUND

Infants with restricted growth for age are frequently exposed to insufficient placental circulation and are more likely to develop postnatal complications. Delayed cord clamping at birth for these infants requires further exploration.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare the short-term neonatal outcomes of delayed cord clamping with that of early cord clamping in small for gestational age preterm infants and to explore whether the effects of delayed cord clamping in small for gestational age preterm infants are different from that in non-small for gestational age preterm infants.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a national retrospective cohort study, including infants born at <33 weeks' gestation and admitted to the Canadian Neonatal Network units between January 2015 and December 2017. Small for gestational age infants (birthweight of <10th percentile for gestational age and sex) who received delayed cord clamping ≥30 seconds were compared with those who received early cord clamping. In addition, non-small for gestational age infants who received delayed cord clamping were compared with those who received early cord clamping. The main study outcomes included composite outcome of mortality or major morbidity, neonatal morbidity rate, mortality rate, peak serum bilirubin, and number of blood transfusions. Multivariable logistic and linear regression models with a generalized estimation equation approach were used to account for the clustering of infants within centers.

RESULTS

Overall, 9722 infants met the inclusion criteria. Of those infants, 1027 (10.6%) were small for gestational age. The median (interquartile range) gestational age was 31 weeks (range, 28-32 weeks). After adjusting for potential confounders, delayed cord clamping in small for gestational age infants was associated with a reduction in the composite outcome of mortality or major morbidity (adjusted odds ratio, 0.60; 95% confidence interval, 0.42-0.86) compared with early cord clamping. There was no difference between the 2 groups in peak serum bilirubin. Many associated benefits of delayed cord clamping in small for gestational age infants were similar to those in non-small for gestational age infants.

CONCLUSION

Delayed cord clamping in small for gestational age preterm infants was associated with decreased odds of mortality or major morbidity. Many of the benefits of delayed cord clamping in the small for gestational age preterm infants were similar to those identified in the non-small for gestational age preterm infants.

Effects of delayed cord clamping in intrauterine growth-restricted neonates: a randomized controlled trial

The time of cord clamping in intrauterine growth-restricted (IUGR) neonates remains an area of uncertainty. This assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial compared the effects of delayed cord clamping (DCC) with early cord clamping (ECC) on the systemic blood flow (SBF) and cerebral hemodynamics in IUGR neonates of gestational age ≥28 weeks, not requiring resuscitation. Eligible newborns were randomized to DCC (cord clamping after 60 s; n=55) or ECC (cord clamping within 30 s; n=55) group immediately after delivery. The primary outcome variable was superior vena cava (SVC) blood flow at 24±2 h. The secondary outcome variables were right ventricular output (RVO), anterior cerebral artery (ACA) blood flow velocity (BFV), superior mesenteric artery (SMA)-BFV and venous hematocrit at 24±2 h, peak total serum bilirubin (TSB), incidences of polycythemia, intraventricular hemorrhage, respiratory distress, feeding intolerance, and necrotizing enterocolitis, outcome, duration of hospital stay, screening audiometry, and serum ferritin levels at the postnatal age of 3 months. Compared to ECC, DCC was associated with significantly higher SVC flow (101.22±21.02 and 81.27±19.12 mL/kg/min, in DCC and ECC groups, respectively; p<0.0001), and significantly increased RVO, SMA-BFV, venous hematocrit, and serum ferritin levels. Though peak TSB was significantly higher with DCC, duration of phototherapy was comparable. ACA-BFV, incidence of polycythemia, and other outcomes were comparable between the groups.Conclusions: DCC was a safe and beneficial intervention in IUGR infants with an improved SBF and SMA-BFV and an increased hematocrit and serum ferritin levels without higher incidences of polycythemia and requirement of phototherapy for significant hyperbilirubinemia.Trial registration: Clinical Trials Registry of India (CTRI/2019/05/018904) What is Known: • Delayed cord clamping (DCC) increases superior vena cava (SVC) blood flow in preterm neonates. • DCC increases hematocrit and serum ferritin in intrauterine growth-restricted (IUGR) neonates, but there may be an associated risk of polycythemia and neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. What is New: • DCC increases SVC blood flow, right ventricular output, superior mesenteric artery blood flow velocity, venous hematocrit, and serum ferritin in IUGR neonates. • Incidences of polycythemia and duration of phototherapy for significant neonatal hyperbilirubinemia do not increase with DCC.

European Resuscitation Council Guidelines 2021: Newborn resuscitation and support of transition of infants at birth

The European Resuscitation Council has produced these newborn life support guidelines, which are based on the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) 2020 Consensus on Science and Treatment Recommendations (CoSTR) for Neonatal Life Support. The guidelines cover the management of the term and preterm infant. The topics covered include an algorithm to aid a logical approach to resuscitation of the newborn, factors before delivery, training and education, thermal control, management of the umbilical cord after birth, initial assessment and categorisation of the newborn infant, airway and breathing and circulation support, communication with parents, considerations when withholding and discontinuing support.

[Newborn resuscitation and support of transition of infants at birth]

The European Resuscitation Council has produced these newborn life support guidelines, which are based on the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) 2020 Consensus on Science and Treatment Recommendations (CoSTR) for Neonatal Life Support. The guidelines cover the management of the term and preterm infant. The topics covered include an algorithm to aid a logical approach to resuscitation of the newborn, factors before delivery, training and education, thermal control, management of the umbilical cord after birth, initial assessment and categorisation of the newborn infant, airway and breathing and circulation support, communication with parents, considerations when withholding and discontinuing support.

Blood Component Transfusion in Tertiary Care Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Neonatal Intermediate Care Unit: An Audit

Background Neonates admitted in a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) require multiple blood transfusions because of extended NICU stay and repeated sampling. The rookie organ systems and miniature blood volumes in the neonate call for regular audits in neonatal blood transfusion practice. Sharing component usage data with the blood bank will prepare them to store components according to demand, thus limiting wastage of components as well as make banks ready to face a shortage in case of ramped up requirements. Objective Auditing neonatal blood transfusion indications and identifying the most commonly used component. Methodology This retrospective cohort study was conducted by the department of pediatrics over 22 months from February 20, 2017, to December 30, 2018. Any preterm and term neonates admitted to the NICU and Neonatal Intermediate Care Unit (NIMC) and receiving any transfusion, i.e., fresh frozen plasma (FFP), red cell concentrate (RCC), platelets, and exchange transfusion were included in our study. We collected data from the medical records of NICU and NIMC admitted patients receiving blood component transfusions from 2011 to 2016. Patients were categorized according to the classification of neonatal conditions by the International Classification of Diseases 11th Revision (ICD-11). There were no exclusion criteria. A descriptive statistical analysis was done, and a Chi-square test was applied. Results Out of 340 neonates, 249 (73.2%) were low birth weight, 139 (40.9%) were small for gestational age (SGA), and 277 (81.5%) neonates required transfusion during the first week of life. The majority of neonates require multiple transfusions. Fourteen(4.12%) neonates required up to 10 transfusions, two neonates required up to 22 transfusions, and 58 neonates required more than five blood transfusions. The majority required transfusion due to neonatal sepsis, Disseminated intravascular coagulopathy, low birth weight, respiratory distress syndrome, and unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia. Thirty-seven point eighty-two percent (37.82%) transfusions were fresh frozen plasma, 31.34% transfusions were red cell concentrate, 28.14% transfusions were platelet concentrate, and 2.70% were whole blood. Out of 340 neonates, 317 survived and were discharged. Conclusion The most commonly transfused component was fresh frozen plasma, the indication was neonatal sepsis, and the group was preterm. Whole blood is still being used and needs to be stopped.

Effect of spontaneous breathing on umbilical venous blood flow and placental transfusion during delayed cord clamping in preterm lambs

INTRODUCTION

During delayed umbilical cord clamping, the factors underpinning placental transfusion remain unknown. We hypothesised that reductions in thoracic pressure during inspiration would enhance placental transfusion in spontaneously breathing preterm lambs.

OBJECTIVE

Investigate the effect of spontaneous breathing on umbilical venous flow and body weight in preterm lambs.

METHODS

Pregnant sheep were instrumented at 132-133 days gestational age to measure fetal common umbilical venous, pulmonary and cerebral blood flows as well as arterial and intrapleural (IP) pressures. At delivery, doxapram and caffeine were administered to promote breathing. Lamb body weights were measured continuously and breathing was assessed by IP pressure changes.

RESULTS

In 6 lambs, 491 out of 1117 breaths were analysed for change in body weight. Weight increased in 46.6% and decreased in 47.5% of breaths. An overall mean increase of 0.02±2.5 g per breath was calculated, and no net placental transfusion was observed prior to cord clamping (median difference in body weight 52.3 [-54.9-166.1] g, p=0.418). Umbilical venous (UV) flow transiently decreased with each inspiration, and in some cases ceased, before UV flow normalised during expiration. The reduction in UV flow was positively correlated with the standardised reduction in (IP) pressure, increasing by 109 mL/min for every SD reduction in IP pressure. Thus, the reduction in UV flow was closely related to inspiratory depth.

CONCLUSIONS

Spontaneous breathing had no net effect on body weight in preterm lambs at birth. UV blood flow decreased as inspiratory effort increased, possibly due to constriction of the inferior vena cava caused by diaphragmatic contraction, as previously observed in human fetuses.

Effect of timing of umbilical cord clamping and other strategies to influence placental transfusion at preterm birth on maternal and infant outcomes

BACKGROUND

Infants born preterm (before 37 weeks' gestation) have poorer outcomes than infants at term, particularly if born before 32 weeks. Early cord clamping has been standard practice over many years, and enables quick transfer of the infant to neonatal care. Delayed clamping allows blood flow between the placenta, umbilical cord and baby to continue, and may aid transition. Keeping baby at the mother's side enables neonatal care with the cord intact and this, along with delayed clamping, may improve outcomes. Umbilical cord milking (UCM) is proposed for increasing placental transfusion when immediate care for the preterm baby is needed. This Cochrane Review is a further update of a review first published in 2004 and updated in 2012.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects on infants born at less than 37 weeks' gestation, and their mothers of: 1) delayed cord clamping (DCC) compared with early cord clamping (ECC) both with immediate neonatal care after cord clamping; 2) DCC with immediate neonatal care with cord intact compared with ECC with immediate neonatal care after cord clamping; 3) DCC with immediate neonatal care after cord clamping compared with UCM; 4) UCM compared with ECC with immediate neonatal care after cord clamping.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group Trials Register, ClinicalTrials.gov, the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) (10 November 2017), and reference lists of retrieved studies. We updated the search in November 2018 and added nine new trial reports to the awaiting classification section to be assessed at the next update.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing delayed with early clamping of the umbilical cord (with immediate neonatal care after cord clamping or with cord intact) and UCM for births before 37 weeks' gestation. Quasi-RCTs were excluded.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently assessed trials for inclusion and risk of bias, extracted data and checked them for accuracy. Random-effects are used in all meta-analyses. Review authors assessed the certainty of the evidence using the GRADE approach.

MAIN RESULTS

This update includes forty-eight studies, involving 5721 babies and their mothers, with data available from 40 studies involving 4884 babies and their mothers. Babies were between 24 and 36+6 weeks' gestation at birth and multiple births were included. The data are mostly from high-income countries. Delayed clamping ranged between 30 to 180 seconds, with most studies delaying for 30 to 60 seconds. Early clamping was less than 30 seconds and often immediate. UCM was mostly before cord clamping but some were milked after cord clamping. We undertook subgroup analysis by gestation and type of intervention, and sensitivity analyses by low risk of selection and attrition bias.All studies were high risk for performance bias and many were unclear for other aspects of risk of bias. Certainty of the evidence using GRADE was mostly low, mainly due to imprecision and unclear risk of bias.Delayed cord clamping (DCC) versus early cord clamping (ECC) both with immediate neonatal care after cord clamping (25 studies, 3100 babies and their mothers)DCC probably reduces the number of babies who die before discharge compared with ECC (average risk ratio (aRR) 0.73, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.54 to 0.98, 20 studies, 2680 babies (moderate certainty)).No studies reported on 'Death or neurodevelopmental impairment' in the early years'.DCC may make little or no difference to the number of babies with severe intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH grades 3 and 4) (aRR 0.94, 95% CI 0.63 to 1.39, 10 studies, 2058 babies, low certainty) but slightly reduces the number of babies with any grade IVH (aRR 0.83, 95% CI 0.70 to 0.99, 15 studies, 2333 babies, high certainty).DCC has little or no effect on chronic lung disease (CLD) (aRR 1.04, 95% CI 0.94 to 1.14, 6 studies, 1644 babies, high certainty).Due to insufficient data, we were unable to form conclusions regarding periventricular leukomalacia (PVL) (aRR 0.58, 95% CI 0.26 to 1.30, 4 studies, 1544 babies, low certainty) or maternal blood loss of 500 mL or greater (aRR 1.14, 95% CI 0.07 to 17.63, 2 studies, 180 women, very low certainty).We identified no important heterogeneity in subgroup or sensitivity analyses.Delayed cord clamping (DCC) with immediate neonatal care with cord intact versus early cord clamping (ECC) (one study, 276 babies and their mothers)There are insufficient data to be confident in our findings, but DCC with immediate neonatal care with cord intact may reduce the number of babies who die before discharge, although the data are also compatible with a slight increase in mortality, compared with ECC (aRR 0.47, 95% CI 0.20 to 1.11, 1 study, 270 babies, low certainty). DCC may also reduce the number of babies who die or have neurodevelopmental impairment in early years (aRR 0.61, 95% CI 0.39 to 0.96, 1 study, 218 babies, low certainty). There may be little or no difference in: severe IVH; all grades IVH; PVL; CLD; maternal blood loss ≥ 500 mL, assessed as low certainty mainly due to serious imprecision.Delayed cord clamping (DCC) with immediate neonatal care after cord clamping versus umbilical cord milking (UCM) (three studies, 322 babies and their mothers) and UCM versus early cord clamping (ECC) (11 studies, 1183 babies and their mothers)There are insufficient data for reliable conclusions about the comparative effects of UCM compared with delayed or early clamping (mostly low or very low certainty).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Delayed, rather than early, cord clamping may reduce the risk of death before discharge for babies born preterm. There is insufficient evidence to show what duration of delay is best, one or several minutes, and therefore the optimum time to clamp the umbilical cord remains unclear. Whilst the current evidence supports not clamping the cord before 30 seconds at preterm births, future trials could compare different lengths of delay. Immediate neonatal care with the cord intact requires further study, and there are insufficient data on UCM.The nine new reports awaiting further classification may alter the conclusions of the review once assessed.

Improving quality of care and outcome at very preterm birth: the Preterm Birth research programme, including the Cord pilot RCT

Background

Being born very premature (i.e. before 32 weeks’ gestation) has an impact on survival and quality of life. Improving care at birth may improve outcomes and parents’ experiences.

Objectives

To improve the quality of care and outcomes following very preterm birth.

Design

We used mixed methods, including a James Lind Alliance prioritisation, a systematic review, a framework synthesis, a comparative review, qualitative studies, development of a questionnaire tool and a medical device (a neonatal resuscitation trolley), a survey of practice, a randomised trial and a protocol for a prospective meta-analysis using individual participant data.

Setting

For the prioritisation, this included people affected by preterm birth and health-care practitioners in the UK relevant to preterm birth. The qualitative work on preterm birth and the development of the questionnaire involved parents of infants born at three maternity hospitals in southern England. The medical device was developed at Liverpool Women’s Hospital. The survey of practice involved UK neonatal units. The randomised trial was conducted at eight UK tertiary maternity hospitals.

Participants

For prioritisation, 26 organisations and 386 individuals; for the interviews and questionnaire tool, 32 mothers and seven fathers who had a baby born before 32 weeks’ gestation for interviews evaluating the trolley, 30 people who had experienced it being used at the birth of their baby (19 mothers, 10 partners and 1 grandmother) and 20 clinicians who were present when it was being used; for the trial, 261 women expected to have a live birth before 32 weeks’ gestation, and their 276 babies.

Interventions

Providing neonatal care at very preterm birth beside the mother, and with the umbilical cord intact; timing of cord clamping at very preterm birth.

Main outcome measures

Research priorities for preterm birth; feasibility and acceptability of the trolley; feasibility of a randomised trial, death and intraventricular haemorrhage.

Review methods

Systematic review of Cochrane reviews (umbrella review); framework synthesis of ethics aspects of consent, with conceptual framework to inform selection criteria for empirical and analytical studies. The comparative review included studies using a questionnaire to assess satisfaction with care during childbirth, and provided psychometric information.

Results

Our prioritisation identified 104 research topics for preterm birth, with the top 30 ranked. An ethnographic analysis of decision-making during this process suggested ways that it might be improved. Qualitative interviews with parents about their experiences of very preterm birth identified two differences with term births: the importance of the staff appearing calm and of staff taking control. Following a comparative review, this led to the development of a questionnaire to assess parents’ views of care during very preterm birth. A systematic overview summarised evidence for delivery room neonatal care and revealed significant evidence gaps. The framework synthesis explored ethics issues in consent for trials involving sick or preterm infants, concluding that no existing process is ideal and identifying three important gaps. This led to the development of a two-stage consent pathway (oral assent followed by written consent), subsequently evaluated in our randomised trial. Our survey of practice for care at the time of birth showed variation in approaches to cord clamping, and that no hospitals were providing neonatal care with the cord intact. We showed that neonatal care could be provided beside the mother using either the mobile neonatal resuscitation trolley we developed or existing equipment. Qualitative interviews suggested that neonatal care beside the mother is valued by parents and acceptable to clinicians. Our pilot randomised trial compared cord clamping after 2 minutes and initial neonatal care, if needed, with the cord intact, with clamping within 20 seconds and initial neonatal care after clamping. This study demonstrated feasibility of a large UK randomised trial. Of 135 infants allocated to cord clamping ≥ 2 minutes, 7 (5.2%) died and, of 135 allocated to cord clamping ≤ 20 seconds, 15 (11.1%) died (risk difference –5.9%, 95% confidence interval –12.4% to 0.6%). Of live births, 43 out of 134 (32%) allocated to cord clamping ≥ 2 minutes had intraventricular haemorrhage compared with 47 out of 132 (36%) allocated to cord clamping ≤ 20 seconds (risk difference –3.5%, 95% CI –14.9% to 7.8%).

Limitations

Small sample for the qualitative interviews about preterm birth, single-centre evaluation of neonatal care beside the mother, and a pilot trial.

Conclusions

Our programme of research has improved understanding of parent experiences of very preterm birth, and informed clinical guidelines and the research agenda. Our two-stage consent pathway is recommended for intrapartum clinical research trials. Our pilot trial will contribute to the individual participant data meta-analysis, results of which will guide design of future trials.

Future work

Research in preterm birth should take account of the top priorities. Further evaluation of neonatal care beside the mother is merited, and future trial of alternative policies for management of cord clamping should take account of the meta-analysis.

Study registration

This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42012003038 and CRD42013004405. In addition, Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN21456601.

Funding

This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Programme Grants for Applied Research programme and will be published in full in Programme Grants for Applied Research; Vol. 7, No. 8. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.

Delayed cord clamping is associated with improved dynamic cerebral autoregulation and decreased incidence of intraventricular hemorrhage in preterm infants

Delayed cord clamping (DCC) improves neurologic outcomes in preterm infants through a reduction in intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) incidence. The mechanism behind this neuroprotective effect is not known. Infants born <28 wk gestation were recruited for longitudinal monitoring. All infants underwent 72 h of synchronized near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) recording within 24 h of birth. Infants with DCC were compared with control infants with immediate cord clamping (ICC), controlling for severity of illness [clinical risk index for babies (CRIB-II) score], chorioamnionitis, antenatal steroids, sedation, inotropes, and delivery mode. Autoregulatory dampening was calculated as the transfer function gain coefficient between the MABP and NIRS signals. Forty-five infants were included (DCC; n = 15, paired 2:1 with ICC controls n = 30). ICC and DCC groups were similar including gestational age (25.5 vs. 25.2 wk, P = 0.48), birth weight (852.3 vs. 816.6 g, P = 0.73), percent female (40 vs. 40%, P = 0.75), and dopamine usage (27 vs. 23%, P = 1.00). There was a significant difference in IVH incidence between the DCC and ICC groups (20 vs. 50%, P = 0.04). Mean MABP was not different (35.9 vs. 35.1 mmHg, P = 0.44). Compared with the DCC group, the ICC group had diminished autoregulatory dampening capacity (-12.96 vs. -15.06 dB, P = 0.01), which remained significant when controlling for confounders. Dampening capacity was, in turn, strongly associated with decreased risk of IVH (odds ratio = 0.14, P < 0.01). The results of this pilot study demonstrate that DCC is associated with improved dynamic cerebral autoregulatory function and may be the mechanism behind the decreased incidence of IVH. NEW & NOTEWORTHY The neuroprotective mechanism of delayed cord clamping in premature infants is unclear. Delayed cord clamping was associated with improved cerebral autoregulatory function and a marked decrease in intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH). Improved dynamic cerebral autoregulation may decrease arterial baroreceptor sensitivity, thereby reducing the risk of IVH.

Delayed clamping vs milking of umbilical cord in preterm infants: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

It has been established that delayed umbilical cord clamping in preterm infants results in improvement in neonatal anemia, need for transfusion, incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis, and intraventricular hemorrhage by increasing neonatal circulating blood volume. However, the effects of umbilical cord milking as an alternative to delayed clamping in preterm infants are unclear.

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective of this study was to compare the effect of delayed clamping vs milking of the umbilical cord on the initial hematocrit concentration in preterm births (23-34 weeks gestation). In addition, we sought to compare the effects of delayed clamping vs milking on the incidences of intraventricular hemorrhage, necrotizing enterocolitis, and need for transfusion (secondary objectives).

STUDY DESIGN

The study was an unblinded randomized controlled trial of singleton preterm infants who were born 23 weeks 0 days to 34 weeks 6 days gestation and were assigned to 1 of 2 controlled study groups: delayed cord clamping for 60 seconds or milking of the cord towards the infant 4 times before clamping. Randomization occurred via block randomization with an allocation ratio of 1 to 1. The patients' third stage of delivery was standardized for route of delivery and randomization arm. All comparisons were preformed with an intent-to-treat analysis approach. The study was powered at 80% with a probability value of .05 for the primary outcome measure of a hematocrit difference of 3% between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

Of the 204 randomized patients, 104 were assigned to the delayed subgroup, and 100 were assigned to the milking subgroup. There were no significant differences in baseline maternal characteristics noted between groups. Though there was not any statistically significant difference in neonatal outcomes between the cord clamping and milking groups, the occurrences of transfusion (15.5% vs 9.1%; P=.24), necrotizing enterocolitis (5.8% vs 3.0%; P=.49), and intraventricular hemorrhage (15.5% vs 10.1%; P=.35) were all lower in the milking group. The milking group had higher initial hematocrit concentration compared with the delayed clamping group, although this was not significant (51.8 [6.2%] vs 49.9 [7.7%]; P=.07]. Peak bilirubin levels and need for phototherapy were similar between groups.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that milking the umbilical cord may be an acceptable alternative to delayed cord clamping because there were similar effects on neonatal hematocrit concentrations and the need for neonatal transfusions and no increased risk for complications or neonatal morbidity. The present data support the concept that milking of the umbilical cord may offer an efficient and timely method of providing increased blood volume to the infant.

Effect of timing of umbilical cord clamping on maternal and neonatal outcomes: A protocol for systematic review and network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Umbilical cord clamping is one of the most commonly used medical or complementary medical interventions. The different timing of cord clamping may have any significant impact on public health. However, the results remain controversial. The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the effect of different timing of umbilical cord clamping on maternal and neonatal outcomes.

METHODS

A systematic literature search for relevant articles will be conducted in the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, Embase, and Chinese Biomedical Literature Database from their inception to December 2018. Any randomized controlled trial (RCT), case-control study, observational study, that reported the effect of different timing of cord clamping will be included regardless of sample size. There are no language restrictions. Mortality and risk of iron-deficiency anemia will be used to assess the clinical effect. Risk of bias assessment of the included RCTs will be conducted by the Cochrane risk of bias tool and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale is used to assess observational studies. All statistical analyses will be performed using Stata V.15.0. A modified version of Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation will be used to assess the quality of evidence in network meta-analysis (NMA).

RESULTS

The results will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

CONCLUSION

This will be the first NMA to evaluate and compare the effect of different timing of umbilical cord clamping. We hope that the results of this NMA will help clinicians and caregivers make more appropriate choices when clamping umbilical cord.

Preterm brain injury: Germinal matrix-intraventricular hemorrhage and post-hemorrhagic ventricular dilatation

Germinal matrix hemorrhage and intraventricular hemorrhages (GMH-IVH) remain a common and clinically significant problem in preterm infants, particularly extremely preterm infants. A large GMH-IVH is often complicated by posthemorrhagic ventricular dilation (PHVD) or parenchymal hemorrhagic infarction and is associated with an increased risk of adverse neurologic sequelae. The widespread use of cranial ultrasonography since the early 1980s has shown a gradual decrease in the incidence of GMH-IVH and has helped with the identification of antenatal and perinatal risk factors and timing of the lesion. The increased use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has contributed to more detailed visualization of the site and extent of the GMH-IVH. In addition, MRI has contributed to the awareness of associated white matter changes as well as associated cerebellar hemorrhages. Although GMH-IVH and PHVD still cannot be prevented, cerebrospinal fluid drainage initiated in the early stage of PHVD development seems to be associated with a better neurodevelopmental outcome. Further studies are underway to improve treatment strategies for PHVD and to potentially prevent and repair GMH-IVH and PHVD and associated brain injury. This chapter discusses the pathogenesis, incidence, risk factors, and management, including preventive measures, of GHM-IVH and PHVD.

Restrictive guideline for red blood cell transfusions in preterm neonates: effect of a protocol change

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate red blood cell (RBC) transfusion practices in preterm neonates before and after protocol change.

METHODS

All preterm neonates (<32 weeks of gestation) admitted between 2008 and 2017 at our neonatal intensive care unit were included in this retrospective study. Since 2014, a more restrictive transfusion guideline was implemented in our unit. We compared transfusion practices before and after this guideline change. Primary outcome was the number of transfusions per neonate and the percentage of neonates receiving a blood transfusion. Secondary outcomes were neonatal morbidities and mortality during admission.

RESULTS

The percentage of preterm neonates requiring a blood transfusion was 37·5% (405/1079) before and 32·7% (165/505) after the protocol change (P = 0·040). The mean number of transfusions given to each transfused neonate decreased from 2·93 (standard deviation (SD) ± 2·26) to 2·20 (SD ±1·29) (P = 0·007). We observed no association between changes in transfusion practices and neonatal outcome.

CONCLUSION

The use of a more restrictive transfusion guideline leads to a reduction in red blood cell transfusions in preterm neonates, without evidence of an increase in mortality or short-term morbidity.

Guidelines for intraoperative care in cesarean delivery: Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Society Recommendations (Part 2)

The Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Society guideline for intraoperative care in cesarean delivery will provide best practice, evidenced-based, recommendations for intraoperative care, with primarily a maternal focus. The "focused" pathway process for scheduled and unscheduled cesarean delivery for this Enhanced Recovery After Surgery cesarean delivery guideline will consider procedure from the decision to operate (starting with the 30-60 minutes before skin incision) through the surgery. The literature search (1966-2017) used Embase and PubMed to search medical subject headings including "cesarean section," "cesarean section," "cesarean section delivery," and all pre- and intraoperative Enhanced Recovery After Surgery items. Study selection allowed titles and abstracts to be screened by individual reviewers to identify potentially relevant articles. Metaanalyses, systematic reviews, randomized controlled studies, nonrandomized controlled studies, reviews, and case series were considered for each individual topic. Quality assessment and data analyses evaluated the quality of evidence and recommendations were evaluated according to the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation system as used and described in previous Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Society guidelines. The Enhanced Recovery After Surgery cesarean delivery guideline/pathway has created a maternal focused pathway (for scheduled and unscheduled surgery starting from 30-60 minutes before skin incision to maternal discharge) with Enhanced Recovery After Surgery-directed preoperative elements, intraoperative elements, and postoperative elements. Specifics of the intraoperative care included the use of prophylactic antibiotics before the cesarean delivery, appropriate patient warming intraoperatively, blunt expansion of the transverse uterine hysterotomy, skin closure with subcuticular sutures, and delayed cord clamping. A number of specific elements of intraoperative care of women who undergo cesarean delivery are recommended based on the evidence. The Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Society guideline for intraoperative care in cesarean delivery will provide best practice, evidenced-based, recommendations for intraoperative care with primarily a maternal focus. When the cesarean delivery pathway (elements/processes) is studied, implemented, audited, evaluated, and optimized by maternity care teams, this will create an opportunity for the focused and optimized areas of care and recommendations to be further enhanced.

ABM Clinical Protocol #7: Model Maternity Policy Supportive of Breastfeeding

A central goal of The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine is the development of clinical protocols for managing common medical problems that may impact breastfeeding success. These protocols serve only as guidelines for the care of breastfeeding mothers and infants and do not delineate an exclusive course of treatment or serve as standards of medical care. Variations in treatment may be appropriate according to the needs of an individual patient.

Fetal Surgery and Delayed Cord Clamping: Neonatal Implications

Advances made in the last several decades in the care of the fetus and newborn have had a significant impact on morbidity and mortality. Delayed umbilical cord clamping in the preterm newborn results in fewer transfusions for anemia, decreased intraventricular hemorrhage, and decreased necrotizing enterocolitis. Because of advances made in fetal ultrasound diagnosis and technological advances, fetal surgeries to treat congenital diaphragmatic hernia, myelomeningocele, twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, fetal lower urinary tract obstructions, amniotic band syndrome, and congenital cystic adenoid malformation or congenital pulmonary airway malformations have improved the quality of life and survival for these patients.

Effect of delayed cord clamping on very preterm twins

BACKGROUND

The very preterm infants of twin births may particularly benefit from delayed cord clamping (DCC) as the likelihood of unfavorable outcome is greater compared to singletons. Unfortunately, there is paucity of available information regarding safety and efficacy of DCC in this group.

OBJECTIVE

To report the clinical consequences of delayed cord clamping (DCC) in very preterm twins, born between 23^0/7 and 31^6/7 weeks gestation.

STUDY DESIGN

In this pre and post intervention retrospective cohort study, we compared 30 very preterm infants born from 15 twin deliveries during historic study period to 32 very preterm infants born from 16 twin deliveries during DCC study period. During historic study period (August 19, 2013 to January 31, 2015), infants included were eligible to receive DCC, but their cords were immediately clamped. DCC study period (February 1, 2015 to January 31, 2017) included infants who had DCC performed for 60 s after birth.

RESULTS

The Apgar scores and other resuscitation variables were similar between both groups. After adjusting for gestational age and mode of delivery, significantly fewer infants in the DCC cohort needed red blood cell (RBC) transfusions in first week of life compared to the historic cohort (15.6% vs. 43.3%; P = 0.03). Death and other major neonatal outcomes were similar between both groups.

CONCLUSION

DCC in very preterm twins was safe, feasible and not associated with any adverse neonatal outcomes compared to early cord clamping. DCC was associated with a significant reduction in early RBC transfusions.

Mask Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Therapy with Simultaneous Extrauterine Placental Transfusion for Resuscitation of Preterm Infants - A Preliminary Study

Background

Delayed cord clamping or cord milking improves cardiovascular stability and outcome of preterm infants. However, both techniques may delay initiation of respiratory support. To allow lung aeration during cord blood transfusion, we implemented an extrauterine placental transfusion (EPT) approach. This study aimed to provide a detailed description of the EPT procedure and to evaluate its impact on the outcome of infants.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed comprising 60 preterm infants (22^0/7 to 31^6/7 weeks of gestation). Of these, 40 were transferred to the resuscitation unit with the placenta still connected to the infant. In this EPT group, continuous positive airway pressure support was initiated while, simultaneously, placental blood was transfused by holding the placenta 40-50 cm above the infant's heart. The cords of another 20 infants were clamped before respiratory support was started (standard group). Data on the infants' outcome were compared retrospectively. In a subgroup of 22 infants (n = 14 EPT, n = 8 standard), respiratory function monitor recordings were performed and both heart rates and SpO₂ levels in the first 10 min of life were compared between groups.

Results

Although infants in the EPT group were lighter (EPT: 875 ± 355 g, standard: 1,117 ± 389 g; p = 0.02) and younger (26^6/7 weeks ± 19 days vs. 28^2/7 weeks ± 18 days; p = 0.045), there was no difference in neonatal outcome, including the incidence of intraventricular hemorrhage, bronchopulmonary disease, and red blood cell transfusions (all p > 0.1). Moreover, no differences in SpO₂ levels and heart rates were observed in the infants whose resuscitations were recorded using a respiratory function monitor.

Conclusions

In this retrospective analysis, EPT had no negative effects on the outcome of the infants, which warrants further evaluation in prospective randomized studies.

Clinical Outcomes in Preterm Infants Following Institution of a Delayed Umbilical Cord Clamping Practice Change

BACKGROUND

Evidence supports a significant reduction in the incidence of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) in preterm infants receiving delayed umbilical cord clamping (DCC).

PURPOSE

This study evaluated clinical feasibility, efficacy, and safety outcomes in preterm infants (<36 weeks' gestational age) who received DCC following a practice change implementation intended to reduce the incidence of IVH.

METHODS

Infants receiving DCC (45-60 seconds) were compared with a sample of infants receiving immediate umbilical cord clamping (<15 seconds) in a retrospective chart review (N = 354). The primary outcome measure was the prevalence of IVH. Secondary safety outcome measures of 1- and 5-minute Apgar scores, axillary temperature on neonatal intensive care unit admission, and initial 24-hour bilirubin level were also evaluated. Gestational age was examined for its effect on outcomes.

RESULTS

Although the small number of infants with IVH precluded the ability to detect statistical significance, our raw data suggest DCC is efficacious in reducing the risk for IVH. For infants 29 or less weeks' gestational age, admission axillary temperature was significantly higher in those who received DCC. No differences were found in 1- and 5-minute Apgar scores, 24-hour bilirubin level, or hematocrit level between the two groups. Infants more than 29 weeks' gestational age who received DCC had significantly higher 1-minute Apgar scores, temperature, and 24-hour bilirubin level.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Clinicians should advocate for the implementation of DCC as part of the resuscitative process for preterm neonates.

IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH

Future studies are needed to evaluate the effect of DCC on other clinical outcomes and to investigate umbilical cord milking as an alternative approach to DCC.

Delayed vs early umbilical cord clamping for preterm infants: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The effects of delayed cord clamping of the umbilical cord in preterm infants are unclear.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to compare the effects of delayed vs early cord clamping on hospital mortality (primary outcome) and morbidity in preterm infants using Cochrane Collaboration neonatal review group methodology.

STUDY DESIGN

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Chinese articles, cross-referencing citations, expert informants, and trial registries to July 31, 2017, for randomized controlled trials of delayed (≥30 seconds) vs early (<30 seconds) clamping in infants born <37 weeks' gestation. Before searching the literature, we specified that trials estimated to have cord milking in >20% of infants in any arm would be ineligible. Two reviewers independently selected studies, assessed bias, and extracted data. Relative risk (ie, risk ratio), risk difference, and mean difference with 95% confidence intervals were assessed by fixed effects models, heterogeneity by I² statistics, and the quality of evidence by Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations.

RESULTS

Eighteen randomized controlled trials compared delayed vs early clamping in 2834 infants. Most infants allocated to have delayed clamping were assigned a delay of ≥60 seconds. Delayed clamping reduced hospital mortality (risk ratio, 0.68; 95% confidence interval, 0.52-0.90; risk difference, -0.03; 95% confidence interval, -0.05 to -0.01; P = .005; number needed to benefit, 33; 95% confidence interval, 20-100; Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations = high, with I² = 0 indicating no heterogeneity). In 3 trials in 996 infants ≤28 weeks' gestation, delayed clamping reduced hospital mortality (risk ratio, 0.70; 95% confidence interval, 0.51-0.95; risk difference, -0.05; 95% confidence interval, -0.09 to -0.01; P = .02, number needed to benefit, 20; 95% confidence interval, 11-100; I² = 0). In subgroup analyses, delayed clamping reduced the incidence of low Apgar score at 1 minute, but not at 5 minutes, and did not reduce the incidence of intubation for resuscitation, admission temperature, mechanical ventilation, intraventricular hemorrhage, brain injury, chronic lung disease, patent ductus arteriosus, necrotizing enterocolitis, late onset sepsis or retinopathy of prematurity. Delayed clamping increased peak hematocrit by 2.73 percentage points (95% confidence interval, 1.94-3.52; P < .00001) and reduced the proportion of infants having blood transfusion by 10% (95% confidence interval, 6-13%; P < .00001). Potential harms of delayed clamping included polycythemia and hyperbilirubinemia.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review provides high-quality evidence that delayed clamping reduced hospital mortality, which supports current guidelines recommending delayed clamping in preterm infants. This review does not evaluate cord milking, which may also be of benefit. Analyses of individual patient data in these and other randomized controlled trials will be critically important in reliably evaluating important secondary outcomes.

Delayed versus Immediate Cord Clamping in Preterm Infants

BACKGROUND

The preferred timing of umbilical-cord clamping in preterm infants is unclear.

METHODS

We randomly assigned fetuses from women who were expected to deliver before 30 weeks of gestation to either immediate clamping of the umbilical cord (≤10 seconds after delivery) or delayed clamping (≥60 seconds after delivery). The primary composite outcome was death or major morbidity (defined as severe brain injury on postnatal ultrasonography, severe retinopathy of prematurity, necrotizing enterocolitis, or late-onset sepsis) by 36 weeks of postmenstrual age. Analyses were performed on an intention-to-treat basis, accounting for multiple births.

RESULTS

Of 1634 fetuses that underwent randomization, 1566 were born alive before 30 weeks of gestation; of these, 782 were assigned to immediate cord clamping and 784 to delayed cord clamping. The median time between delivery and cord clamping was 5 seconds and 60 seconds in the respective groups. Complete data on the primary outcome were available for 1497 infants (95.6%). There was no significant difference in the incidence of the primary outcome between infants assigned to delayed clamping (37.0%) and those assigned to immediate clamping (37.2%) (relative risk, 1.00; 95% confidence interval, 0.88 to 1.13; P=0.96). The mortality was 6.4% in the delayed-clamping group and 9.0% in the immediate-clamping group (P=0.03 in unadjusted analyses; P=0.39 after post hoc adjustment for multiple secondary outcomes). There were no significant differences between the two groups in the incidences of chronic lung disease or other major morbidities.

CONCLUSIONS

Among preterm infants, delayed cord clamping did not result in a lower incidence of the combined outcome of death or major morbidity at 36 weeks of gestation than immediate cord clamping. (Funded by the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council [NHMRC] and the NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre; APTS Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry number, ACTRN12610000633088 .).

A Randomized Controlled Trial to Evaluate the Role of Brief Delay in Cord Clamping in Preterm Neonates (34-36 weeks) on Short-term Neurobehavioural Outcome

AIM

To study the effect of brief delay in cord clamping on short-term neurobehavioural outcome of preterm neonates.

METHODS

All preterm neonates born between 34-36 weeks and 6 days were included and randomized into either a control or intervention group. In the control group, clamping was done within 20 s after delivery, and this was termed as immediate cord clamping (ICC). In the intervention group, delayed cord clamping (DCC) took place between 30 and 60 s. A total of 120 preterm neonates were enrolled. The primary outcome studied was short-term neurobehavioural outcome at 37 weeks after conceptional age using the Neurobehavioral Assessment of Preterm Infants (NAPI) score as the outcome measure.

RESULTS

NAPI scores at 37 weeks of corrected gestational age revealed a mean (95% confidence interval) score of motor development and vigour of 64.21±27.31 (57.27 - 71.14) vs. 76.69±25.29 (70.04-83.34), p= 0.01; and alertness and orientation of 29.31±12.78 (26.06-32.55) vs. 42.77±15.75 (38.63-46.91), p= 0.00 across the ICC vs. DCC groups, respectively.

CONCLUSION

A brief delay of 30-60 s in cord clamping is beneficial in improving neurobehavioural outcome of late preterm infants.

Postpartum haemorrhage: prevention and treatment

INTRODUCTION

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is one of the leading causes of maternal death and severe maternal morbidity worldwide and strategies to prevent and treat PPH vary among international authorities. Areas covered: This review seeks to provide a global overview of PPH (incidence, causes, risk factors), prevention (active management of the third stage of labor and prohemostatic agents), treatment (first, second and third-line measures to control PPH), by also underlining recommendations elaborated by international authorities and using algorithms. Expert commentary: When available, oxytocin is considered the drug of first choice for both prevention and treatment of PPH, while peripartum hysterectomy remains the ultimate life-saving procedure if pharmacological and resuscitation measures fail. Nevertheless, the level of evidence for preventing and treating PPH is globally low. The emergency nature of PPH makes randomized controlled trials (RCT) logistically difficult. Population-based observational studies should be encouraged as they can usefully strengthen the evidence base, particularly for components of PPH treatment that are difficult or impossible to assess through RCT.

Benefits of Delayed Cord Clamping in Red Blood Cell Alloimmunization

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Several studies have shown the benefits of delayed cord clamping (DCC) in preterm and in healthy newborns at short and long term. Our objective was to evaluate the potentials benefits and risks of DCC in red cell alloimmunization.

METHODS

This was a comparative before/after study of all living born neonates followed after fetal anemia requiring in utero transfusion. DCC was defined as cord clamping 30 seconds after birth.

RESULTS

We included a continuous series of 72 neonates: 36 without DDC (group 1) and 36 with DDC (group 2). Hemoglobin at birth was lower in group 1 (10.2 vs 13.4 g/dL, P = .0003); 7 (25%) neonates in group 1 vs 24 (70.6%) in group 2 had no anemia at birth (P = .004). The rate of transfusion was similar between the 2 groups. Postnatal exchange transfusions were more likely performed in the group without DCC than in the group with DCC (47.2% vs 19.4%, P = .0124). Delay between birth and first transfusion was higher in group 2 (0 [0-13] vs 1 [0-21], P = .0274). The maximum level of bilirubin, the rate of intensive phototherapy, and the total duration of phototherapy were similar in the 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights a significant benefit of DCC in anemia secondary to red blood cell alloimmunization with a resulting decreased postnatal exchange transfusion needs, an improvement in the hemoglobin level at birth and longer delay between birth and first transfusion with no severe hyperbilirubinemia.

Neurodevelopmental Outcomes at 2 and 3.5 Years for Very Preterm Babies Enrolled in a Randomized Trial of Milking the Umbilical Cord versus Delayed Cord Clamping

BACKGROUND

Guidelines published by the International Liaison Committee for Resuscitation and by the World Health Organization recommend delaying cord clamping at birth as part of routine care for infants.

OBJECTIVE

To study the use of milking of the cord 4 times as an alternative to enhance the redistribution of placental blood into the baby.

METHODS

This is a prospective cohort study of neurodevelopmental assessment by the Bayley III method of very preterm infants who had participated in a trial of delayed cord clamping versus cord milking at birth that was conducted in a neonatal tertiary care hospital. The primary outcomes were differences in cognitive, motor and language development at 2 and 3.5 years. Two-tailed analyses were performed with the x03C7;2 test, Fisher's exact test, t test, Mann-Whitney U test and ANCOVA.

RESULTS

Out of the 58 infants enrolled in the original study, 39 infants (67%) were assessed at 2 years and 29 (50%) at 3.5 years of age. Neurodevelopmental outcomes at 2 and 3.5 years did not significantly differ between the two groups for the three Bayley III composite scores. At 3.5 years there was a trend towards higher scores for girls in the language composite scores (girls: mean = 121.6, SD = 15.22; boys: mean = 101.07, SD = 19.84) and on the motor scale (girls: mean = 124.60, SD = 18.15; boys: mean = 97.86, SD = 17.23).

CONCLUSIONS

In this small number of participants followed up at 2 and 3.5 years of age, milking of the cord 4 times did not have any long-term adverse effect on neurodevelopmental outcome, suggesting that cord milking could be used as an alternative to delayed cord clamping.

Timing of umbilical cord clamping among infants born at 22 through 27 weeks' gestation

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the safety, feasibility and efficacy of delayed cord clamping (DCC) compared with immediate cord clamping (ICC) at delivery among infants born at 22 to 27 weeks' gestation.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a pilot, randomized, controlled trial in which women in labor with singleton pregnancies at 22 to 27 weeks' gestation were randomly assigned to ICC (cord clamped at 5 to 10 s) or DCC (30 to 45 s).

RESULTS

Forty mother-infant pairs were randomized. Infants in the ICC and DCC groups had mean gestational ages (GA) of 24.6 and 24.4 weeks, respectively. No differences were observed between the groups across all available safety measures, although infants in the DCC group had higher admission temperatures than infants in the ICC group (97.4 vs. 96.2 °F, P=0.04). During the first 24 h of life, blood pressures were lower in the ICC group than in the DCC group (P<0.05), despite a threefold greater incidence of treatment for hypotension (45% vs. 12%, P<0.01). Infants in the ICC group had increased numbers of red blood transfusions (in first 28 days of life) than infants in DCC group (4.1±3.9 vs. 2.8±2.2, P=0.04).

CONCLUSION

Among infants born at an average GA of 24 weeks', DCC appears safe, logistically feasible, and offers hematological and circulatory advantages compared with ICC. A more comprehensive appraisal of this practice is needed.

Effect of delayed cord clamping on very preterm infants

OBJECTIVE

Despite significant proposed benefits, delayed umbilical cord clamping (DCC) is not practiced widely in preterm infants largely because of the question of feasibility of the procedure and uncertainty regarding the magnitude of the reported benefits, especially intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) vs the adverse consequences of delaying the neonatal resuscitation. The objective of this study was to determine whether implementation of the protocol-driven DCC process in our institution would reduce the incidence of IVH in very preterm infants without adverse consequences.

STUDY DESIGN

We implemented a quality improvement process for DCC the started in August 2013 in infants born at ≤32 weeks' gestational age. Eligible infants were left attached to the placenta for 45 seconds after birth. Neonatal process and outcome data were collected until discharge. We compared infants who received DCC who were born between August 2013 and August 2014 with a historic cohort of infants who were born between August 2012 and August 2013, who were eligible to receive DCC, but whose cord was clamped immediately after birth, because they were born before the protocol implementation.

RESULTS

DCC was performed on all the 60 eligible infants; 88 infants were identified as historic control subjects. Gestational age, birthweight, and other demographic variables were similar between both groups. There were no differences in Apgar scores or admission temperature, but significantly fewer infants in the DCC cohort were intubated in delivery room, had respiratory distress syndrome, or received red blood cell transfusions in the first week of life compared with the historic cohort. A significant reduction was noted in the incidence of IVH in the DCC cohort compared with the historic control group (18.3% vs 35.2%). After adjustment for gestational age, an association was found between the incidence of IVH and DCC with IVH was significantly lower in the DCC cohort compared with the historic cohort; an odds ratio of 0.36 (95% confidence interval, 0.15-0.84; P < .05). There were no significant differences in deaths and other major morbidities.

CONCLUSION

DCC, as performed in our institution, was associated with significant reduction in IVH and early red blood cell transfusions. DCC in very preterm infants appears to be safe, feasible, and effective with no adverse consequences.

Comparison of Umbilical Cord Milking and Delayed Cord Clamping on Cerebral Blood Flow in Term Neonates

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effect of umbilical cord milking (UCM) and delayed cord clamping (DCC) on cerebral blood flow in term neonates.

METHODS

This randomized controlled trial was conducted at a teaching hospital in India during 2012 to 2013. Two hundred newborns (>36wk) were randomized to UCM and DCC groups. UCM was done on 25cm of cord length. In DCC group, clamping was delayed by 60 to 90s. Resistive Index (RI), Pulsatility Index (PI) and cerebral blood flow velocities of middle cerebral artery (MCA) were measured at 24 to 48h of life.

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics and hemodynamic parameters were comparable. Mean PI [1.18 (0.26)] and RI [0.65 (0.08)] in UCM group was comparable to mean PI [1.18 (0.25)] and RI [0.65 (0.08)] in DCC group. The peak systolic velocity and end diastolic velocity (cm/s) of blood flow in MCA for UCM group were 34.94 (11.82) and 11.71 (4.75) respectively, while in DCC group they were 37.24 (12.63) and 13.07 (4.78) (p 0.23 and 0.07) respectively. Indices among growth retarded babies were not different.

CONCLUSIONS

DCC and UCM had similar effect on cerebral blood flow velocities and Doppler indices in MCA, in term neonates.

Effect of 40-cm segment umbilical cord milking on hemoglobin and serum ferritin at 6 months of age in full-term infants of anemic and non-anemic mothers

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effect of early clamping and milking of a 40-cm umbilical cord LUCM (long umbilical cord and milking) on hemoglobin (Hb) and serum ferritin concentrations at 6 months of age and to evaluate whether the effect is different in infants of anemic and non-anemic mothers.

STUDY DESIGN

Eligible term-infants of anemic (maternal Hb<11.0 g dl(-1)) and non-anemic mothers (Hb ⩾11.0 g dl(-1)) were randomized to LUCM or control groups (N=100 each). In the LUCM group, the umbilical cord was clamped at 40-cm length and milked. The control group had the cord clamped at 5 cm and not milked. Neonatal morbidities until discharge and Hb and serum ferritin at 6 months of age were compared. Effects in infants of anemic and non-anemic mothers were compared.

RESULT

Compared with infants of non-anemic mothers, cord Hb was similar (14.50±1.90 g dl(-1) vs 14.67±1.73 g dl(-1)), but cord ferritin lower (85.8±55.4 ng ml(-1) vs 119.4±58.5 ng ml(-1), P<0.01) in infants of anemic mothers. Mean Hb concentration at 6 months was 9.60±1.42 g dl(-1) in the LUCM group and 9.07±1.10 g dl(-1) in the control group (P=0.004). Mean serum-ferritin concentration at 6 months was 113.9±43.8 ng ml(-1) in the LUCM group and 70.8±39.5 ng/ml in the control group (P<0.001). The effectiveness of LUCM did not vary with the maternal anemia status.

CONCLUSION

Keeping the umbilical cord long and milking may be an effective method for improving Hb and iron stores at 6 months of age in term-infants.

Clamp late and maintain perfusion (CLAMP) policy: delayed cord clamping in preterm infants

OBJECTIVE

Randomized controlled trials have demonstrated that delayed umbilical cord clamping (DCC) in preterm infants results in improved neonatal outcomes, including increased hematocrit, and decreased rates of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) and packed red blood cell transfusions. We hypothesized that implementation of a DCC policy in preterm infants would result in similarly improved outcomes, despite initial clinician resistance.

STUDY DESIGN

A DCC policy (30-60 s) for singleton infants <35 weeks gestation was implemented in September 2011. We conducted a pre-test/post-test analysis of neonatal outcomes among singletons delivered between 24 0/7 weeks and 34 6/7 weeks gestation from 2009 to 2013 (2 years pre-implementation and 2 years post-implementation). The primary outcomes were rates of policy compliance and four neonatal outcomes.

RESULTS

Despite multiple routes of policy dissemination, DCC was attempted in only 49% of the deliveries. In spite of this, infants delivered post-policy implementation (n = 196) had a significant decrease in IVH, significant increase in initial hematocrits, and improved temperatures compared with infants delivered pre-implementation (n = 204).

CONCLUSION

After implementation of a DCC policy, preterm singleton infants had improved temperatures, increased hematocrits and a decreased prevalence of IVH without significant differences in adverse outcomes, suggesting that the benefits of DCC outweighed the risks.

Hemodynamic antecedents of peri/intraventricular hemorrhage in very preterm neonates

Novel hemodynamic monitoring technologies have contributed to the understanding of developmental cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology in general, and of developmental hemodynamics in particular. Hemodynamic disturbances play a significant role in the pathogenesis of peri/intraventricular hemorrhage (P/IVH) in preterm infants. Immaturity of the myocardium, delayed and incomplete cardiopulmonary transition, sustained patency of the ductus arteriosus, and unintended consequences of respiratory and cardiovascular supportive care are all likely to be involved in the presentation of low cardiac output syndrome and decreased organ blood flow in a large number of very preterm neonates (gestational age ≤28 weeks). Forebrain vessels in very preterm infants may not have achieved a "high-priority vasculature" status at the time of delivery; in these patients, forebrain perfusion is not protected during the compensated phase of shock. Reperfusion may be attenuated by the careful use of medications decreasing cerebrovascular reactivity, thus providing a potential target for the development of careful pharmacological support of transitional hemodynamics in selected patients at high risk for the development of P/IVH.

Effect of delayed cord clamping (DCC) on breathing and transition at birth in very preterm infants

BACKGROUND

The effects of delayed cord clamping (DCC) on transition in preterm infants are important as this procedure is becoming increasingly recommended. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of DCC with an historical cohort.

METHOD

In this observational study, outcomes for infants ≤ 29 weeks were compared with a group born before the introduction of DCC. The intended intervention was DCC for 40s. Primary outcomes were the need for resuscitation and intubation in infants undergoing DCC, whilst taking note of their breathing during the procedure. Neonatal morbidities were analysed, including the association between breathing during DCC and outcome.

RESULTS

There were 62 infants in the DCC group, and 62 who received immediate cord clamping (ICC). Maternal and infant characteristics including gestational age (p = 0.76) and birth weight (p = 0.74) between groups were not significantly different. 70% of the DCC group breathed regularly at birth. Comparing the DCC and ICC groups, there was no significant difference in 1 min and 5 min Apgar scores or in the number requiring intubation at birth (p = 0.88). Likewise, admission temperatures were similar (p = 0.57). There was a significant increase in the rate of chronic lung disease in the DCC group (p = 0.013). When comparing the infants who breathed during DCC with the non-breathers; the non-breathing group was more likely to be intubated (p = 0.01), have chronic lung disease (p = 0.02), and severe intraventricular haemorrhage (p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

DCC in these very preterm infants was well tolerated and the majority established spontaneous respiration whilst DCC was occurring. Infants who did not breathe during DCC had worse outcomes.

Parents report positive experiences about enrolling babies in a cord-related clinical trial before birth

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate parents' perceptions when they were asked to enrol their unborn preterm infant in a randomised trial involving delayed cord clamping or cord milking.

METHODS

The parents of 58 infants were asked to take part in a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews to provide feedback about how they felt about their infants being included in the research project. A total of 37 parents - 15 fathers and 22 mothers - agreed to take part.

RESULTS

Parents were generally positive about their experiences of their baby taking part in the trial, but the findings raised some concerns about the validity of the consent obtained before delivery, as it was given in a hurry, and some participants had difficulty remembering that they had agreed to take part. Four themes were identified from the interviews: implications of taking part, reasons for enrolling infants, experiences of recruitment and suggestions for improvement.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the parents were positive about their baby taking part in the trial, but the consent process could be improved, by providing information about relevant trials earlier in the pregnancy or implementing continuous consent at key points in the trial.

Umbilical cord milking reduces need for red cell transfusions and improves neonatal adaptation in preterm infants: Meta-analysis

AIM

To assess effects of umbilical cord milking (UCM) on early blood pressure stabilization, hemoglobin (Hb), as well as incidence of transfusion and complications in preterm infants.

METHODS

This meta-analysis was conducted by searching the Pubmed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library (until July 2014) databases. Any clinical trials, including randomized control trials, comparing UCM to immediate cord clamping (ICC) were analyzed.

RESULTS

Six studies were included in this meta-analysis. In total, 292 preterm infants were treated with UCM, while 295 received ICC. Compared to ICC, UCM increased initial Hb significantly by 1.84 g/dL (weighted mean difference; 95%CI: 0.91-2.76; P < 0.0001) and decreased the incidence of transfusion with a pooled risk ratio of 0.74 (95%CI: 0.61-0.90; P = 0.002). Incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) and mortality were significantly lower with UCM compared with ICC. Apgar score and temperature were not significantly different between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

By facilitating the early stabilization of blood pressure, UCM at preterm birth was found to be comparatively safe and associated with lower blood transfusion exposure and lower incidence of IVH, NEC and death.

Neonatal resuscitation: evolving strategies

Birth asphyxia accounts for about 23% of the approximately 4 million neonatal deaths each year worldwide (Black et al., Lancet, 2010, 375(9730):1969-87). The majority of newborn infants require little assistance to undergo physiologic transition at birth and adapt to extrauterine life. Approximately 10% of infants require some assistance to establish regular respirations at birth. Less than 1% need extensive resuscitative measures such as chest compressions and approximately 0.06% require epinephrine (Wyllie et al. Resuscitation, 2010, 81 Suppl 1:e260–e287). Transition at birth is mediated by significant changes in circulatory and respiratory physiology. Ongoing research in the field of neonatal resuscitation has expanded our understanding of neonatal physiology enabling the implementation of improved recommendations and guidelines on how to best approach newborns in need for intervention at birth. Many of these recommendations are extrapolated from animal models and clinical trials in adults. There are many outstanding controversial issues in neonatal resuscitation that need to be addressed. This article provides a comprehensive and critical literature review on the most relevant and current research pertaining to evolving new strategies in neonatal resuscitation. The key elements to a successful neonatal resuscitation include ventilation of the lungs while minimizing injury, the judicious use of oxygen to improve pulmonary blood flow, circulatory support with chest compressions, and vasopressors and volume that would hasten return of spontaneous circulation. Several exciting new avenues in neonatal resuscitation such as delayed cord clamping, sustained inflation breaths, and alternate vasopressor agents are briefly discussed. Finally, efforts to improve resuscitative efforts in developing countries through education of basic steps of neonatal resuscitation are likely to decrease birth asphyxia and neonatal mortality.

Safety and efficacy of delayed umbilical cord clamping in multiple and singleton premature infants - A quality improvement study

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a quality improvement (QI) program of delayed umbilical cord clamping (DCC) in multiple and singleton preterm infants born at our center.

METHODS

After DCC protocol implementation, compliance and success rate were assessed. Clinical outcomes of selected 150 preterm infants <34 weeks gestation born in 2014 after protocol implementation (Epoch II) were compared to those of preterm infants born in 2013 before protocol implementation (Epoch I).

RESULTS

Overall protocol compliance rate was 92% (246/267). DCC was successfully performed in 77% (205/267) after protocol implementation. There were higher multiple births in Epoch II compared to Epoch I (27.3 vs. 15.3% , p <  0.01). At birth, infants in Epoch II had significantly decreased need for intubation in delivery room (23.3 vs. 39.3% , p <  0.01), had higher hematocrit (46.4±7.3 vs. 44.0±7.1% , p <  0.01) and less metabolic acidosis (base excess -4.1±2.7 vs. -5.3±4.2 mmol/L, p <  0.01) compared to those born in Epoch I. During hospital stay, fewer infants in Epoch II received rescue surfactant therapy (45.3 vs. 56.7% , p = 0.05), medical treatment for PDA (6.7 vs. 16.6% , p = 0.04%) and red blood cell transfusions (20.7 VS. 32.0% , p <  0.01) compared to Epoch I.

CONCLUSIONS

Protocol-guided practice of DCC for 30 seconds can be safely performed in multiple and singleton preterm infants. In addition to higher initial hematocrit, infants in our QI project had lower need for delivery room resuscitation and less metabolic acidosis at birth. We also observed decreased need for rescue surfactant therapy, medical treatment for PDA and red blood cell transfusions after DCC protocol implementation.