Evolución clínica y gasométrica en recién nacidos pretérmino en ventilación por volumen / Clinical and gasometric evolution in preterm newborns with volume ventilation

Resumen Antecedentes: La ventilación mecánica continúa siendo una herramienta esencial en el cuidado de los recién nacidos prematuros. Hay evidencia de que la ventilación limitada por volumen (VLV) tiene ventajas sobre ventilación limitada por presión (VLP). Objetivo: Determinar la evolución clínica y gasométrica en los recién nacidos pretérmino en VLV en comparación con VLP. Material y métodos: Fue una investigación observacional y analítica en una unidad de cuidados intensivos neonatales, donde se incluyeron 80 recién nacidos ≤ 32 semanas de gestación y ≤ 1,000 g al nacimiento divididos en dos grupos. Resultados: Se observó diferencia estadísticamente significativa en días de ventilación, favoreciendo a VLV (p = 0.002); en las variables hipoxemia e hipocarbia, que son directamente afectadas por el modo ventilatorio, se encontró menor grado de afectación en VLV pero sin diferencia estadística. Se encontró en el grupo de pacientes con VLV menor acidosis respiratoria (p = 0.05) y menor requerimiento de fracción inspirada de oxígeno (FIO2) (p = 0.04). Conclusión: Al igual que la literatura, nuestros resultados comprueban beneficios como disminución de días de ventilación, disminución de acidosis y necesidades menores de FIO2 con el uso de VLV.

Abstract Background: Mechanical ventilation continues to be an essential tool in the care of premature newborns, there is evidence that volume-limited ventilation (VLV) has advantages over pressure-limited ventilation (VLP). Objective: To determine the clinical and gasometric evolution in newborns I preterm VLV compared to VLP. Material and methods: It was an observational and analytical research in a neonatal intensive care unit, where 80 newborns were included ≤ 32 weeks of gestation and ≤ 1000 grams at birth divided into two groups. Results: Statistically significant difference was observed in ventilation days, favouring VLV (p=0.002); in hypoxemia and hypocarbia variables, which are directly affected by ventilatory mode, lower degree of affection was found in VLV but without statistical difference. It was found in the group of patients with VLV lower respiratory acidosis (p=0.05), and lower FIO2 requirements (p=0.04). Conclusion: Like literature, our results prove benefits such as decreased ventilation days, decreased acidosis and lower needs of FIO2 with the use of VLV.

VNFns vs. CPAPn como métodos de extubación y rescate en recién nacidos con dificultad respiratoria / VNFns vs. CPAPn as methods of extubation and rescue in newborns with respiratory distress

Resumen Introducción: La ventilación nasofaríngea no sincronizada (VNFns) y la presión positiva continua de la vía área nasal (CPAPn) son métodos de asistencia ventilatoria no invasiva. Objetivo: Comparar la eficacia de los dos métodos como estrategia de extubación y rescate. Material y métodos: Pacientes que hubiesen estado en alguna de ambas estrategias del 2008 al 2012, categorizándolos como extubación o rescate y midiendo el éxito o fracaso. Resultados: El éxito como estrategia de extubación fue del 83.3% para la VNFns contra el 68.7% de la CPAPn (OR: 2.26). Hubo diferencia para VNFns, en relación con los días de hospitalización, con una media de 38.6 contra 65.4 días (p = 0.0001). En cuanto a la displasia broncopulmonar, hubo disminución de riesgo (OR: 0.64; p = 0.01) para la VNFns. Hubo mayor número de complicaciones para la CPAPn, lesión de la columnela, neumomediastino, neumotórax y sangrado nasal. En la VNFns se presentó con mayor frecuencia la hipocarbia. Conclusión: La VNFns mostró ser una estrategia efectiva y segura, en comparación con la CPAPn.

Abstract Background: Non-synchronized nasopharyngeal ventilation (VNFns) and continuous positive pressure of the nasal airway (CPAPn) are methods of non-invasive ventilatory support. Objective: To compare the efficacy of the two methods as an extubation and rescue strategy. Material and methods: Patients who had been in one of both strategies from 2008 to 2012, categorizing them as extubation or rescue and measuring success or failure. Results: Success as an extubation strategy was 83.3% for VNFns against 68.7% for CPAPn (OR: 2.26). There was a difference for VNFns, in relation to hospitalization days, with a mean of 38.6 versus 65.4 days (p = 0.0001). Regarding bronchopulmonary dysplasia, there was a decreased risk (OR: 0.64; p = 0.01) for VNFns. There was a higher number of complications for CPAPn, columella injury, pneumomediastinum, pneumothorax and nasal bleeding. Hypocarbia was more frequent in VNFns. Conclusion: VNFns was shown to be an effective and safe strategy, compared to CPAPn.

Estimating Neonatal Necrotizing Enterocolitis Based on Feeding Practices.

(1) Background: The relationship between enteral nutrition and neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) among premature neonates is still unclear. The present work was designed to assess the relationship between NEC and feeding strategies compared to control infants. (2) Methods: A retrospective case-control study of premature infants (<35 weeks' gestation) with or without NEC that examined feeding practices and clinical characteristics at birth and 3, 7, and 14-day hospitalization, with a longitudinal and cross-sectional analysis. (3) Results: A total of 100 newborns with NEC diagnosis and 92 neonates without the disease with similar demographic and clinical characteristics were included. The median day of NEC diagnosis was 15 days (Interquartile Range (IQR) 5-25 days). A significantly higher number of neonates that were fasting on days 7 and 14 developed NEC (p < 0.05). In the longitudinal analysis, generalized linear and mixed models were fit to evaluate NEC association with feeding strategies and showed that exclusive mother's own milk (MM) and fortified human milk (FHM) across time were significantly less likely associated with NEC (p < 0.001) and that enteral fasting was positively related with NEC. In the cross-sectional analysis, a binary logistic regression model was fit and predicted 80.7% of NEC cases. MM was also found to correlate with a reduced risk for NEC (OR 0.148, 95% CI 0.044-0.05, p = 0.02), and in particular, on day 14, several factors were related to a decreased odd for NEC, including birth weight, antenatal steroids, and the use of FHM (p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: MM and FHM were associated with less NEC compared to fasting on days 7 and 14. Feeding practices in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) should promote exclusive MM across the two-week critical period as a potential guideline to improve NEC outcome.

Relación entre la adquisición del gateo y la marcha independiente en el niño de alto riesgo en seguimiento / Relationship between gait acquisition and independent gait in the high-risk child in follow-up

Resumen Introducción: El gateo representa la primera forma de locomoción autónoma. Se han mencionado las implicaciones de la adquisición del gateo para lograr la marcha independiente y el control motor en el niño, pero son pocos los estudios relacionados con el gateo y sus efectos en el niño de alto riesgo biológico. Por eso se intentó conocer la relación entre la adquisición del gateo y la marcha independiente en una población de niños nacidos de alto riesgo en un programa de seguimiento pediátrico. Material y métodos: Estudio observacional, retrospectivo y descriptivo de una cohorte de niños de alto riesgo que acuden al seguimiento pediátrico, en el cual se revisó el periodo de adquisición del patrón de gateo y la marcha independiente. Resultados: Se integraron cuatro grupos: gateo normal, gateo limítrofe, gateo con retraso y gateo nulo. Se estudió a 558 lactantes; los grupos se integraron con gateo normal, 238 niños; gateo limítrofe, 96 lactantes; retraso en la adquisición del gateo, 207 niños; y gateo nulo, 17 niños. Por género, las niñas gatean mejor, con peso y edad gestacional mayores y predominio en los gateadores. La escala de Bayley señala mejores puntuaciones para los gateadores. En los niños con gateo normal, la marcha independiente se adquirió en el periodo normal a diferencia del grupo con retraso en el gateo en el cual la marcha independiente apareció con retraso. Conclusiones: En este estudio se identificó una relación entre la edad de inicio del gateo con la edad de adquisición de la marcha independiente, con mejor evolución en los niños gateadores.

Abstract Background: Crawling represents the first form of autonomous human locomotion. Much has been said about the implications that an adequate acquisition of crawling has on development in order to achieve independent gait in the short term and the child's motor control in the long term. There are few studies related to crawling and its implications in children who were high biologic risk newborns. Therefore, we wanted to know the relation between crawling acquisition and independent gait in a population of children who were high risk at birth in our Pediatric Follow up clinic. Material and Methods: An observational, retrospective, and analytical study of a cohort of children who were high risk at birth, and attended our pediatric follow-up clinic was done. The period between crawling acquisition and independent gait was reviewed. Results: 4 groups were integrated; normal crawling, borderline crawling, delayed crawling and null crawling. 558 infants were studied; the groups were integrated by: normal crawling 238 children; borderline crawling with 96 infants; delayed crawling with 207 children and null crawling with 17 children. By gender distribution, girls achieved better crawling. Weight and higher gestational age predominated in children with normal crawling. Crawlers had the best scores in the Bayley Scale. In children with normal crawling, independent gait was acquired within the normal period unlike the group with delay in crawling where independent gait was behind. Conclusions: In this study, we found a relation between the age of onset of crawling with the age of acquisition of the independent gait, with better skill in children who crawled.

Retinopathy of prematurity, frequency and risk factors in very low birth weight infants.

Background: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is the principal cause of blindness during childhood. The objective of this study was to analyze the frequency of ROP and risk factors associated with ROP in a cohort of very low birth weight infants. Methods: A cases (ROP) and controls (no ROP) study of infants less than 1500 g was conducted. Perinatal and neonatal variables were analyzed. For the statistical analysis, χ2 test, Student's t-test and Mann-Whitney's U-test were used. Results: For the study, 282 neonates were included: 152 (53.9%) with ROP and 130 (46.1%) without ROP. The most frequent stages observed were stage 1 and 2, with 139 (91.4%) patients, and stages 3 to 5, with only 13 patients (8.5%). In those neonates with ROP compared with neonates without ROP, the birth weight was less (902.7 vs. 1037.9 g) and the difference was significant (p < 0.0001). Also, the difference with gestational age (28.2 vs. 29.6; p < 0.0001), total ventilation days (32.8 vs. 16.1; p < 0.00001) and total oxygen days (87.7 vs. 62.6; p < 0.0001) was significant in neonates with ROP and neonates without the disease. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia, intraventricular hemorrhage and late onset sepsis were significant with patients with ROP. Conclusions: The frequency of ROP reported here is higher than the reported in Mexican population, with less cases of severe ROP. The neonatal surveillance in babies with less birth weight and gestational age is important to decrease the incidence of ROP.

Introducción: La retinopatía del prematuro (ROP) es una de las principales causas de ceguera infantil. La inmadurez y la exposición a oxígeno son algunos factores de riesgo. El objetivo de este artículo fue analizar la frecuencia y los factores de riesgo de ROP en una cohorte de recién nacidos menores de 1,500 g. Métodos: Se llevó a cabo un estudio de casos (con ROP) y controles (sin ROP) de recién nacidos menores de 1,500 g. Se analizaron variables prenatales y neonatales, y para su comparación se utilizaron las pruebas estadísticas t de Student, χ2 y U de Mann-Whitney. Resultados: Se analizaron 282 recién nacidos: 152 (53.9%) con ROP y 130 (46.1%) sin ROP. La mayor frecuencia se encontró en los estadios 1 y 2, con 139 pacientes (91.4%), seguidos de los estadios 3 a 5, con 13 pacientes (8.5%). En los pacientes con ROP, el peso al nacer fue menor (902.7 vs. 1037.9 g; p < 0.0001), así como la edad gestacional (28.2 vs. 29.6 semanas de gestación; p < 0.0001). Los días de ventilación (32.8 vs. 16.1; p < 0.00001) y los días de oxígeno requerido durante la estancia hospitalaria (87.7 vs. 62.6; p < 0.0001) fueron mayores en los pacientes con ROP. La displasia broncopulmonar, la hemorragia intraventricular y la sepsis tardía fueron comorbilidades significativas para el desarrollo de ROP. Conclusiones: En este estudio, la frecuencia de ROP fue mayor que la reportada en la población mexicana, con una baja proporción de formas graves. La vigilancia estrecha del manejo de los neonatos con menor peso y menos edad gestacional es fundamental para lograr disminuir esta enfermedad.

Análisis de la frecuencia y factores de riesgo asociados a la retinopatía del prematuro en neonatos de muy bajo peso al nacer / Retinopathy of prematurity, frequency and risk factors in very low birth weight infants

Resumen Introducción: La retinopatía del prematuro (ROP) es una de las principales causas de ceguera infantil. La inmadurez y la exposición a oxígeno son algunos factores de riesgo. El objetivo de este artículo fue analizar la frecuencia y los factores de riesgo de ROP en una cohorte de recién nacidos menores de 1,500 g. Métodos: Se llevó a cabo un estudio de casos (con ROP) y controles (sin ROP) de recién nacidos menores de 1,500 g. Se analizaron variables prenatales y neonatales, y para su comparación se utilizaron las pruebas estadísticas t de Student, χ2 y U de Mann-Whitney. Resultados: Se analizaron 282 recién nacidos: 152 (53.9%) con ROP y 130 (46.1%) sin ROP. La mayor frecuencia se encontró en los estadios 1 y 2, con 139 pacientes (91.4%), seguidos de los estadios 3 a 5, con 13 pacientes (8.5%). En los pacientes con ROP, el peso al nacer fue menor (902.7 vs. 1037.9 g; p < 0.0001), así como la edad gestacional (28.2 vs. 29.6 semanas de gestación; p < 0.0001). Los días de ventilación (32.8 vs. 16.1; p < 0.00001) y los días de oxígeno requerido durante la estancia hospitalaria (87.7 vs. 62.6; p < 0.0001) fueron mayores en los pacientes con ROP. La displasia broncopulmonar, la hemorragia intraventricular y la sepsis tardía fueron comorbilidades significativas para el desarrollo de ROP. Conclusiones: En este estudio, la frecuencia de ROP fue mayor que la reportada en la población mexicana, con una baja proporción de formas graves. La vigilancia estrecha del manejo de los neonatos con menor peso y menos edad gestacional es fundamental para lograr disminuir esta enfermedad.

Abstract Background: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is the principal cause of blindness during childhood. The objective of this study was to analyze the frequency of ROP and risk factors associated with ROP in a cohort of very low birth weight infants. Methods: A cases (ROP) and controls (no ROP) study of infants less than 1500 g was conducted. Perinatal and neonatal variables were analyzed. For the statistical analysis, χ2 test, Student’s t-test and Mann-Whitney’s U-test were used. Results: For the study, 282 neonates were included: 152 (53.9%) with ROP and 130 (46.1%) without ROP. The most frequent stages observed were stage 1 and 2, with 139 (91.4%) patients, and stages 3 to 5, with only 13 patients (8.5%). In those neonates with ROP compared with neonates without ROP, the birth weight was less (902.7 vs. 1037.9 g) and the difference was significant (p < 0.0001). Also, the difference with gestational age (28.2 vs. 29.6; p < 0.0001), total ventilation days (32.8 vs. 16.1; p < 0.00001) and total oxygen days (87.7 vs. 62.6; p < 0.0001) was significant in neonates with ROP and neonates without the disease. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia, intraventricular hemorrhage and late onset sepsis were significant with patients with ROP. Conclusions: The frequency of ROP reported here is higher than the reported in Mexican population, with less cases of severe ROP. The neonatal surveillance in babies with less birth weight and gestational age is important to decrease the incidence of ROP.

Evaluation of the Light-Cycler® SeptiFast Test in Newborns With Suspicion of Nosocomial Sepsis.

BACKGROUND: Nosocomial sepsis (NS) in newborns (NBs) is associated with high mortality rates and low microbial recovery rates. To overcome the latter problem, new techniques in molecular biology are being used. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of SeptiFast test for the diagnosis of nosocomial sepsis in the newborn. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 86 blood specimens of NBs with suspected NS (NOSEP-1 Test > 8 points) were analyzed using Light Cycler SeptiFast (LC-SF) a real-time multiplex PCR instrument. The results were analyzed with the Roche SeptiFast Identification Software. Another blood sample was collected to carry out a blood culture (BC). RESULTS: Sensitivity (Sn) and specificity (Sp) of 0.69 and 0.65 respectively, compared with blood culture (BC) were obtained for LC-SF. Kappa index concordance between LC-SF and BC was 0.21. Thirteen (15.11%) samples were BC positive and 34 (31.39%) were positive with LC-SF tests. CONCLUSIONS: Compared with BC, LC-SF allows the detection of a greater number of pathogenic species in a small blood sample (1 mL) with a shorter response time.

[Guía latinoamericana para el diagnóstico y tratamiento de alergia a las proteínas de la leche de vaca (GL-APLV)].

Cow's milk allergy (CMA) is an immune-based disease that has become an increasing problem. The diagnosis and management of CMA varies from one clinical setting to another and represents a challenge in pediatric practice. In addition, because nonallergic food reactions can be confused with CMA symptoms, there is an overdiagnosis of the disease. In response to these situations, pediatric specialties from recognized institutions throughout Latin America decided to develop a clinical guideline for diagnosis and management of cow's milk allergy. These guidelines include definitions, epidemiology, pathophysiology overview, clinical and evidencebased recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of CMA. They also include prevention and prognosis sections and identify gaps in the current knowledge to be addressed through future research.

Ventilación nasofaríngea versus presión positiva continua de la vía aérea nasal como método ventilatorio de rescate: Reporte preliminar / Nasopharyngeal ventilation versus nasal continuous positive airway pressure as rescue ventilatory method: Preliminary report

Objetivo: Comparar la presión continua positiva de la vía aérea nasal y la ventilación nasofaríngea. Material y métodos: Ensayo clínico aleatorizado que incluyó a todos los recién nacidos admitidos a la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Neonatales del INPer que presentaron dificultad respiratoria y requerían soporte ventilatorio. Se incluyeron 28 individuos, divididos en dos grupos: el primero de 12 pacientes, manejado con ventilación nasofaríngea, y el segundo de 16 pacientes, tratados con presión positiva continua de la vía aérea nasal. Criterios de inclusión: Neonatos con dificultad respiratoria y automatismo respiratorio que requerían apoyo ventilatorio. Criterios de exclusión: Patología nasal, malformaciones congénitas mayores, trastorno neuromuscular, síndrome de fuga aérea y antecedente de cirugía o patología de abdomen. Variables: edad gestacional, peso, días de vida, enfermedad de fondo, método ventilatorio previo, días de aplicación de la ventilación, indicación del método de ventilación, complicaciones, tasa de éxito. Se usó estadística descriptiva y para la comparación de los grupos χ² o U de Mann-Whitney. Resultados: En el grupo de ventilación nasofaríngea hubo nueve neonatos pretérmino hipotróficos, mientras que en el grupo de presión positiva continua de la vía aérea nasal hubo seis neonatos pretérmino hipotróficos. Todos los neonatos ingresaron al estudio en fase I de ventilación. La indicación predominante para la aplicación del método de rescate en el grupo de ventilación nasofaríngea fue apnea, y en el grupo de presión positiva continua de la vía aérea nasal, dificultad respiratoria. La ventilación nasofaríngea falló en cinco pacientes (41.6%) y la presión positiva continua de la vía aérea nasal en tres (18.7%), sin haber diferencia estadística.

Objective: To compare the nasal continuous positive airway pressure and nasopharyngeal ventilation. Methods: Randomized clinical trial that included all infants admitted at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of the INPer, who had respiratory distress and required ventilatory support. In total were included 28 neonates, divided into two groups, the first with 12 patients with nasopharyngeal ventilation, and the second with 16 neonates in nasal continuous positive airway pressure. Inclusion criteria: Infants with respiratory distress and respiratory automatism that required ventilatory support. Exclusion criteria: Nasal pathology, major congenital malformations, neuromuscular disorder, air leak syndrome, previous abdominal surgery or intestinal disease. Study variables: gestational age, weight, days of life, underlying disease, prior ventilatory support method of ventilation, days of application, indications, complications, rate of success. We used descriptive statistics and for comparison of the groups χ2 or Mann-Whitney U. Results: The group with nasopharyngeal ventilation had nine preterm hypotrophic neonates; the group in nasal continuous positive airway pressure had six preterm hypotrophic neonates. At the moment of admission to the study all the neonates were in phase I of ventilation. The predominant indication of ventilation at the nasopharyngeal ventilation group was apnea, and respiratory distress for nasal continuous positive airway pressure group. Nasopharyngeal ventilation failed in five patients (41.6%) and three (18.7%) in nasal continuous positive airway pressure group, without statistical difference.

Double-blind, randomised clinical assay to evaluate the efficacy of probiotics in preterm newborns weighing less than 1500 g in the prevention of necrotising enterocolitis.

BACKGROUND: A randomised, double-blind clinical trial was undertaken in order to assess the effectiveness of probiotics in the prevention of necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) in newborns weighing <1500 g. METHODS: We studied a group of 150 patients who were randomised in two groups after parental consent was obtained, to receive either a daily feeding supplementation with a multispecies probiotic (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus plantarum, Bifidobacteruim infantis, Streptococcus thermophillus) 1 g per day plus their regular feedings or to receive their regular feedings with nothing added (control group), over the period of January 2007 through June 2010. Clinicians in care of the infants were blinded to the group assignment. RESULTS: The primary outcome was the development of NEC. Both groups were comparable, with no differences during hospitalisation, including the type of nutrition received. Blood cultures obtained from cases that developed sepsis did not reveal lactobacillus or Bifidobacteria growth. No differences were detected in terms of NEC risk reduction (RR: 0.54, 95% CI 0.21 to 1.39) although we did observe a clear trend in the reduction of NEC frequency in the studied cases: 6 (8%) versus 12 (16%) in the control group. When the combined risk of NEC or death was calculated as a post hoc analysis, we found a significantly lower risk (RR: 0.39, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.87) for the study group. CONCLUSIONS: Probiotics may offer potential benefits for premature infants and are a promising strategy in the reduction of the risk of NEC in preterm newborns.

Pérdida de peso corporal y velocidad de crecimiento postnatal en recién nacidos menores de 1,500 gramos durante su estancia en un hospital de tercer nivel de atención / Body weight and postnatal growth velocity in premature ≤ 1,500 g during their hospital stay in a teartiary level of care

Introducción: La pérdida de peso en los primeros cinco a siete días de vida y el crecimiento en los prematuros depende de muchos factores. Existe una asociación inversa entre la edad gestacional y la pérdida de peso corporal en la primera semana de vida: a menor edad gestacional y menor peso al nacimiento es más difícil lograr una velocidad de crecimiento adecuada. Los objetivos de este estudio fueron determinar la pérdida de peso corporal en recién nacidos ≤ 1,500 g, calcular la velocidad de crecimiento absoluta (g/día) y relativa (g/kg/día), y correlacionar la pérdida ponderal porcentual con la edad gestacional. Material y métodos: Estudio observacional, longitudinal y retrospectivo de recién nacidos ≤ de 1,500 g. Las variables de estudio fueron edad gestacional, peso, talla y perímetro cefálico al nacer, con seguimiento de peso diario, talla y perímetro cefálico semanal. Se calculó la pérdida ponderal máxima, la velocidad de crecimiento y se correlacionó la pérdida ponderal máxima con la edad gestacional. Resultados: Se analizaron 101 casos, con edad gestacional promedio de 30.2 ± 2.3, peso al nacer de 1,190.7 g ± 204.5, 42 neonatos (41.6%) fueron con peso bajo para la edad gestacional y 59 (58.4%) con peso adecuado para la edad gestacional. El porcentaje máximo de pérdida de peso fue de 8.6 ± 4.5%, la recuperación del peso se presentó en el día 10.9 ± 5.2; la velocidad de crecimiento fue de 19.3 ± 5.4 g/día y 16.9 ± 5.4 g/kg/día; a menor edad gestacional hay mayor pérdida ponderal máxima con una correlación negativa baja y significativa (r = -0.422, p < 0.0001). Conclusiones: La velocidad de crecimiento absoluta (g/d) y relativa (g/kg/d) son útiles en la valoración nutricia diaria de todo recién nacido prematuro, permite detectar patrones de crecimiento subóptimos y realizar de manera oportuna intervenciones nutricionales para mejorar la velocidad de crecimiento. La pérdida ponderal en recién nacidos prematuros tiene una asociación significativa negativa, inversa con la edad gestacional.

Introduction: Weight loss in the first five to seven days of life and growth in preterm infants depends on many factors. In the first week of life, there is an inverse association between gestational age and loss of body weight; with very low birth weight and low gestational age is more difficult to achieve adequate growth velocity. The objectives were to determine the loss of body weight in infants less than 1,500 g calculate, the absolute growth velocity (g/day) and relative (g/kg/day), and correlate the percentage weight loss and gestational age. Methods: Observational, longitudinal and retrospective study of preterm neonates ≤ 1,500 g. The variables analyzed were at birth: weight, gestational age, length, and cephalic circumference, then monitoring the weight per day, and length and cephalic circumference, per week. It was calculated maximum weight loss and growth velocity. For maximum weight loss and gestational age, Pearson correlation was used. Results: Cases of 101 infants, with birth weight 1,190.7 ± 204.5 g and gestational age of 30.2 ± 2.3 were analyzed, 42 neonates (41.6%) had low birth weight for gestational age and 59 (58.4%) adequate weight for gestational age; the maximum average of weight loss was 8.6% ± 4.5; loss was presented in day 4.2 ± 1.7 and weight regain was presented on day 10.9 ± 5.2. Growth velocity was 19.3 ± 5.4 g/day and 16.9 ± 5.4 g/kg/day, an inverse negative correlation was observed between weight loss and gestational age (r = -0.422, p < 0.0001). Conclusions: The absolute growth velocity (g/day) and relative (g/kg/day) are useful in assess the nutritional condition in premature infants, and gives the opportunity to clinicians detect suboptimal growth velocity patterns and make adequate interventions. An inverse negative correlation was observed between weight loss and gestational age.

Control térmico en el recién nacido pretérmino / Thermal control in preterm newborn

La historia del control térmico neonatal data de finales del siglo XIX con la observación de Pierre Budin en el Hospital de Maternidad de París; Budin reportó una disminución en la mortalidad del 66 al 38% en recién nacidos con peso ≤ 2,000 gramos, posterior a la introducción de medidas de control térmico. Con el número creciente de prematuros de muy bajo peso que se atienden hoy en día en las Unidades de Cuidado Intensivo Neonatal es esencial que pediatras, neonatólogos y todo el personal involucrado en la atención entiendan la transición y la adaptación fisiológica que estos niños deben hacer, con la finalidad de proporcionarles un ambiente térmico óptimo con la tecnología que está disponible en la actualidad. La revisión concluye con la evaluación de la información disponible en estudios clínicos, mediante niveles de evidencia y grados de recomendación de acuerdo al sistema GRADE.

The history of neonatal thermal control dates from the late XIX century, with the observation of Pierre Budin in Paris Maternity Hospital, reporting a decrease in mortality from 66 to 38% in infants weighing ≤ 2,000 grams, after the introduction of thermal control measures. With the growing number of very low birth weight infants who are seen today in the Neonatal Intensive Care Units, it is essential that pediatricians, neonatologists and all staff involved in the care, understand the transition and physiological adaptation children should do, with the aim of providing a optimal thermal environment thermal environment with currently available technology. The review concludes with an evaluation of available information on clinical studies, using levels of evidence and grades of recommendation, according to the GRADE system.

Factores de riesgo asociados a mortalidad en neonatos menores de 1500 g utilizando la escala CRIB II / Risk factors associated with mortality in infants weighing less than 1500 g using the CRIB II scale

Introducción. Las escalas de riesgo son herramientas para cuantificar el riesgo inicial y facilitar y validar la comparación de resultados entre hospitales. Pueden ser de mucha utilidad para evaluar la calidad y los costos de los cuidados proporcionados y establecer un patrón aceptable de funcionamiento en las Unidades de Cuidado Intensivo Neonatal. El objetivo de este trabajo fue conocer los factores de riesgo para la mortalidad neonatal en menores de 1500 g utilizando la escala CRIB II. Métodos. Se realizó un estudio de casos y controles durante el período 2007-2009. Se analizaron las variables que contempla el CRIB II por medio del cálculo de promedios y desviaciones estándar, además de la razón de momios con el intervalo de confanza al 95% y las curvas ROC para puntos de corte de sensibilidad y especifcidad. Resultados. Se analizaron 52 casos (fallecidos) y 52 controles (sobrevivientes). La edad promedio fue 28.5 semanas de gestación y el peso promedio 865 g. Los factores de riesgo para el aumento de la mortalidad fueron: sexo masculino, Apgar bajo al minuto, Apgar bajo a los 5 minutos, temperatura <36 °C, hemorragia intraventricular y ventilación de alta frecuencia. La prematurez extrema fue la causa base más frecuente de mortalidad (90%). La hemorragia intraventricular fue la causa directa más frecuente (40.3%) seguida de choque séptico (19.2%), fuga aérea (11.5%), enfermedad de membrana hialina (9.6%), hemorragia pulmonar (9.6%) y enterocolitis (3.8%). Conclusiones. La escala predictiva CRIB II es de utilidad para el pronóstico de la mortalidad neonatal.

Background. Clinical Risk Index for Babies (CRIB) II score as well as other scoring systems was developed during the last decade in neonatal intensive care units in order to predict morbidity and mortality risk. Today, risk-adjusted severity of illness is frequently used in clinical research and quality assessments. The objective was to evaluate the clinical risk index in very low birth weight newborns with the CRIB II score in a tertiary hospital during 2007-2009. Methods. We performed a case-control study in 52 patients who died (cases) and 52 survivors (controls). Descriptive statistical analysis was performed by obtaining mean and standard deviation. We also performed odds ratio with 95% confdence interval and ROC curves in order to obtain cutoff points for sensitivity and specifcity. Results. Mean gestational age was 28.5 weeks. Average weight was 865 g. Factors associated with increased risk of mortality were male gender, low Apgar score, temperature <36°C, intraventricular hemorrhage and high frequency ventilation. The most frequent cause of mortality (90%) was extreme prematurity. Intraventricular hemorrhage was the most common direct cause (40.3%) followed by septic shock (19.2%), air leak (11.5%), hyaline membrane disease (9.6%) pulmonary hemorrhage (9.6%) and enterocolitis (3.8%). Conclusions. The CRIB II scale is a useful tool for predicting neonatal mortality.

Mortalidad neonatal en 2007 y 2008 en un centro de tercer nivel de atención / Newborn mortality in 2007 and 2008 in a tertiary level care center

Introducción. La mortalidad neonatal es un indicador sensible y específico que nos permite conocer el estado de salud de un país y plantear estrategias para mejorarlo. Resulta de una cadena compleja de determinantes como los biológicos, los socioeconómicos y los de salud. El objetivo de este trabajo fue conocer la tasa de mortalidad neonatal general, por peso y edad gestacional, en un instituto de tercer nivel de atención durante 2007 y 2008. Métodos. Se analizaron todos los casos provenientes del comité de mortalidad perinatal y neonatal, de 2007 y 2008, desde 22 semanas de gestación en adelante. El análisis estadístico se realizó mediante medidas de tendencia central y dispersión para las variables cuantitativas y para las variables cualitativas frecuencia, porcentaje, χ² y razón de momios con nivel de significación estadística < 0.05. Resultados. La tasa de mortalidad para el año 2007 fue de 17.7 × 1000 nacidos vivos y para el 2008 de 19.7 × 1000 nacidos vivos. En relación con el peso y con la edad gestacional no se encontró aumento de riesgo al comparar los resultados de ambos años. Las malformaciones ocuparon el mayor porcentaje entre las causas de defunción. Conclusiones. Las tasas de mortalidad en 2007 y 2008 fueron de 17.7 y 19.7 × 1000 nacidos vivos, respectivamente. Las principales causas de defunción fueron las malformaciones cardiacas.

Background. Mortality is a sensitive and specific indicator for determining the health status of a country in order to implement improvement strategies. It is the result of biological, social, economic and health factors. The aim of this study was to determine neonatal general mortality and its relationship with weight and gestational age at a third-level health institution from 2007 to 2008. Methods. We analyzed all patients >22 weeks of gestational age from the perinatal mortality service. Statistical analysis was done using measures of central tendency and dispersion for quantitative variables and χ2, percentage and frequency for qualitative variables; odds ratios were calculated with significance level <0.05. Results. The mortality rate for 2007 was 17.7 per 1000 live births, and for 2008 it was 19.7 per 1000 live births. When we compared both years, we did not find an increased risk for weight and gestational age. Malformations occupied the largest causes of death. Conclusions. For years 2007 and 2008, mortality rates were 17.7 and 19.7 per 1000 live births, respectively, and the main cause of deaths were cardiac malformations.

Efectividad del ácido ursodesoxicólico versus fenobarbital para el tratamiento de la colestasis en prematuros. Ensayo clínico cruzado / Efectiveness of ursodeoxycholic acid versus phenobarbital for the treatment of neonatal cholestasis: a cross-randomizad clinical trial

Introducción. La prevalencia de colestasis neonatal varía del 7-57%. Parte del manejo incluye al ácido ursodesoxicólico (UDCA) y al fenobarbital, ambos con débil sustento en la literatura. El objetivo de este trabajo es comparar la efectividad del UDCA vs fenobarbital en la reducción de las cifras de bilirrubina directa, en recién nacidos prematuros con colestasis, con peso entre 1 000-2 000 g. Métodos. Se realizó un ensayo clínico aleatorizado cruzado en 18 pacientes. Cada individuo recibió al azar una de las dos intervenciones: UDCA (10 mg/kg/día c/12 h) o fenobarbital (a 3 mg/kg/día c/24 h) durante un período inicial de 7 días. Después de 7 días de lavado, se les asignó el tratamiento contrario. En total se realizaron 36 tratamientos. Se midieron bilirrubinas y pruebas de función hepática al inicio y final de cada tratamiento. El análisis se realizó por medio de medidas de tendencia central y de dispersión, de acuerdo al tipo de variable. Para la comprobación de hipótesis se realizó t pareada. Resultados. En el grupo que recibió UDCA a 10 mg/kg/día c/12 h por 7 días, disminuyeron las cifras de bilirrubina directa en 2.7 mg/dL (P<0.01). Conclusiones. Se recomienda el uso de UDCA a dosis de 10 mg/kg/día c/12 h por vía enteral como coadyuvante para el tratamiento de colestasis neonatal.

Background. The prevalence of neonatal cholestasis varies from 7-57%. Part of the treatment includes ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and phenobarbital, both with little supporting evidence in the literature. We undertook this study to compare the effectiveness of phenobarbital vs. UDCA in reducing the direct serum bilirubin levels in patients with cholestasis and weighing from 1 000 to 2 000 g. Methods. Using a cross-randomized clinical trial, 18 patients were included with 36 treatments. Each subject randomly received one of the two interventions: UDCA (10 mg/kg/day) every 12 h or phenobarbital (3 mg/kg/day, every 24 h for 7 days) continuing with 7 days of wash-out to return to their initial state, and to subsequently receive the other treatment. At the beginning and at the end of the administration of each medication, bilirubin concentrations and hepatic test functions were measured. Central tendency and dispersion measurements were applied according to the type of variable. For hypothesis confirmation, paired t-test was carried out. Results. The obtained results indicate that with UDCA at a dose of 10 mg/kg/day every 12 h for 7 days, serum bilirubin levels decreased to 2.7 mg/dL (p <0.01). Phenobarbital had no effect in reducing bilirubin concentration. Conclusion. Use of UDCA is recommended at a dose of 10 mg/kg/dose every 12 h (PO) as a coadjuvant in the treatment of neonatal cholestasis.

Risk factors associated with sensorineural hearing loss in infants at the neonatal intensive care unit: 15-year experience at the National Institute of Perinatology (Mexico City).

BACKGROUND: Infants from neonatal intensive care units (NICU) are at high risk for sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL); however, risk factors may change from NICU to NICU and from country to country. Our objective was to describe the main causes associated with SNHL in infants from a tertiary level NICU in Mexico City and to show the associated audiometric profiles. METHODS: We performed a comparison of follow-up of infants from NICU with SNHL and a control group with the same history but with normal hearing. Infants were examined at birth by brainstem auditory evoked potentials (BAEP) and followed by audiometric tests. Hearing loss was associated with clinical variables. RESULTS: SNHL group had 146 children and the control group had 272 children. Mean weight at birth in the SNHL group was 1530+/-581 g and in the control group, 1723+/-805 g (p<0.01). Days spent at the NICU and under mechanical ventilation were higher in the SNHL group (p<0.001). In addition, serum bilirubin levels were higher in the SNHL group than in the control group (p<0.001). Blood exchange, intraventricular hemorrhage, and neonatal meningitis comprised the main SNHL-associated variables. Use of prenatal steroids and pulmonary surfactant demonstrates protection against SNHL. Audiometric profiles disclosed mainly severe SNHL. CONCLUSIONS: Low birth weight, longer stay in NICU and under mechanical ventilation, higher serum bilirubin levels, prevalence of blood exchange, intraventricular hemorrhage, and meningitis in high-risk newborns were the main risk factors associated with SNHL and merit hearing screening and early intervention in high-risk infants.

[Morbidity in newborns of term associated with tract of birth]. / Morbilidad en neonatos a término relacionada con la vía de nacimiento.

BACKGROUND: Injuries associated to tract of birth and breathing disease constitutes a risk for life and function in the perinatal period, with an incidence referred in national literature that varies from 2-7% for the first one to 12.4% in the international literature for second. OBJECTIVE: To determine the incidence of injury associated to the tract of birth and breathing disease in newborns of term and compare the morbidity from birth among both tracts. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Comparative, prospective, analytic cohort study. 350 newborns in term through vaginal tract were included, and 350 by abdominal tract. Injury associated to the tract of birth and breathing disease were analyzed. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: for comparison among groups chi2 and t of Student, relative risk was determined. RESULTS: Injury associated to the tract of birth incidence was 5.1%, breathing pathology 13.7%. The ones born by vaginal tract had an increment in the frequency of injuries compared to those born by abdominal tract (p = 0.006). There was no statistic difference in the breathing disease among both channels of birth. Nevertheless the comparison between programmed caesarean vs. caesarean preceded by labour obtained a p = 0.004. CONCLUSIONS: Injuries associated to birth in newborns by vaginal tract are conditioned mainly by forceps. There was no statistical significance of breathing disease when comparing both channels of birth. The caesarean preceded by labour provoked less respiratory morbility than programmed caesarean.

Association between intelligence quotient scores and extremely low birth weight in school-age children.

BACKGROUND: Extremely low birth weight (ELBW) has been associated with poor cognitive development in children. We performed this research to establish the association between ELBW and the influence of biological and socioeconomic factors in the intelligence quotient (IQ) score in school-age children. METHODS: This study comprised 184 children with mean and standard deviation of 6.9 +/- 0.8 years of age. The children were divided into four groups based on their birth weight as follows: group A (n = 25), < or =1000 g; group B (n = 52), 1001-1500 g; group C (n = 66), 1501-2500 g; and group D (n = 41), > or =2501 g. The Stanford-Binet after the Terman-Merril Intelligence Scale was used to determine IQ scores. RESULTS: Mean and standard deviation (SD) of IQ values were 95.3 +/- 11.3 for group A, 103.1 +/- 14.4 for group B, 105.1 +/- 12.3 for group C, and 106.8 +/- 11.7 for group D (p = 0.003). Frequencies of children with scores below normal distribution were the following: 28% in group A; 10% in group B; 15% in group C, and 5% in group D (chi(2) = 0.04). Bronchopulmonary dysplasia and parental education were associated with lower IQ scores (p <0.05). CONCLUSIONS: IQ scores of children born with ELBW were significantly lower when compared to children born with a higher birth weight. Additional studies are important to determine whether these neurodevelopmental delays persist into adulthood, and whether there are additional factors associated with catch-up and recovery.

Evaluación de la morbi-mortalidad neonatal con el uso de esteroides prenatales / Neonatal morbidity and mortality evaluation in the prenatal steroids use

Antecedentes: Los esteroides prenatales han sido utilizados para reducir la frecuencia de complicaciones respiratorias neonatales. Anualmente se informan 13 millones de nacimientos prematuros en el mundo, el Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes informa el 19.7%. Objetivo: El objetivo del presente trabajo fue conocer el riesgo de utilizar uno o más esquemas de esteroides antenatales en amenaza de parto prematuro. Material y Métodos: Se trata de un estudio retrospectivo en un hospital de tercer nivel, del primero de enero del 2002 al 31 de diciembre del 2003, se incluyeron neonatos prematuros entre la semana 26 a 32 de gestación, cuyas madres recibieron uno o más esquemas de esteroides antenatales, dos dosis de 12 mg de betametasona intramuscular con intervalo de 24 horas o cuatro dosis de 6 mg de dexametasona intramuscular. Resultados: Se revisaron 108 expedientes que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión, se dividieron en dos: grupo I, 69 neonatos con un solo esquema y grupo II con 39, con dos o más esquemas. La edad gestacional fue significativamente menor para el grupo I con 28 semanas (p = 0.001). La ruptura prematura de membranas de más de 24 horas tuvo mayor frecuencia en el grupo I: 65% de los neonatos de este grupo necesitaron intubación endotraqueal durante la reanimación al nacimiento, contra el 59% del grupo II. Aumentó el riesgo para septicemia en el grupo I. La principal causa de muerte en ambos grupos fue el choque séptico. El riesgo de muerte fue mayor para el grupo I, OR 3.57; IC 95%: 1.2 - 11.36. Conclusión: No se pudo demostrar que la utilización de más de un esquema de maduración pulmonar sea perjudicial para el neonato.

Introduction: Prenatal steroids have been used to reduce the frequency of neonatal respiratory complications. 13 million of preterm births are reported annually. Nineteen point seven percent of the births at The National Institute of Perinatology in Mexico City are preterm. We want to know the risks of antenatal corticosteroid therapy in pregnant women with preterm labor. Material and Methods: We conducted a retrospective study in a third level hospital between January first 2002 and December 31 2003. Neonates with gestational ages between 26 and 32 weeks whose mothers received one or more antenatal corticosteroids therapy schemes (2 doses of 12 mg of intramuscular betametasone with 24 hour interval or 4 doses or 6 mg of intramuscular dexamethasone) were included. Results: One hundred and eight clinical records were reviewed and divided into two different groups: Group I (n = 69) who received one antenatal steroid scheme and Group II (n = 39) with 2 or more antenatal steroids therapy schemes. Men gestational age was significantly lower, 28 weeks, in group I (p = 0.001). Premature rupture of membranes of 24 hour of duration or more was more frequent in group I and 65% of the neonates in this group required endotracheal intubation during neonatal reanimation and 59% of the neonates in group II. Required this maneuver. There was an increased risk of septicemia and death in group I. The principal cause of death in both groups was septic shock. The risk of death was higher in group I; OR 3.57 IC 95% 1.2,11.36. Conclusion: According to this results we were no able te demonstrate that more than one maturation treatment schedule were benefitial in any way to the neonates.

Valoración del riesgo de morbi-mortalidad en recién nacidos con peso < de 1,500 g, en una unidad hospitalaria de tercer nivel / Risk morbidity-mortality evaluation in new born with weight < 1.500 g, at a third level hospital

Antecedentes: La mortalidad perinatal, es un problema de salud en los países en vías de desarrollo, en poblaciones de recién nacidos con peso < de 1,500 g. Objetivo: Determinar el impacto de la morbilidad y mortalidad en los recién nacidos = de 1,500 g en una unidad de tercer nivel. Material y Métodos: Se analizaron de manera retrospectiva 155 expedientes de todos los nacidos durante el año 2003, con peso < de 1,500 g. Los pacientes se dividieron de acuerdo al peso en dos grupos, menores y mayores de 1,000 g. Las variables fueron: edad gestacional, peso al nacimiento, vía de resolución del embarazo, diagnósticos y muerte neonatal y se calcularon riesgos de morbi-mortalidad. Resultados: En los menores < 1,000 g, la vía de nacimiento vaginal, el trabajo de parto y la hiperbilirrubinemia tuvieron una mayor relación con la mortalidad. La morbilidad la hipotroficidad ocupó el primer lugar, seguida de la hiperbilirrubinemia (HBMF) y de la enfermedad de membrana hialina (EMH). El 47.7 % de los pacientes tuvieron sepsis sin germen aislado (SSGA); mientras que tan sólo en 32 casos (20.6 %) fue posible la recuperación bacteriológica del agente causal. Conclusiones: La población con peso < de 1,500 g, es la de mayor riesgo en cuanto la morbi-mortalidad, independientemente de la vía de nacimiento. El trabajo de parto y la interrupción del mismo necesitan de más estudios para evaluar su impacto en la morbi-mortalidad relacionada a la vía de nacimiento.

Background: The perinatal mortality particularly among very low birth weight infants is a health issue in developing countries. Objective: To determine the impact that mortality and morbidity may have on the very low birth weight infants in an intensive care unit. Material and Methods: One hundred and fifty five files met the inclusion criteria. The patients were divided into two groups according to the birth weight, less than 1,000 g and over a 1,000 g. The variables included were: birth weight, delivery mode, diagnoses and neonatal death. Odd ratios were calculated. Results: Birth weight less than 1,000 g, delivery mode, labor and hyperbilirrubinemia were more death related. Morbidity was more related with small for gestational age in first place, follow by hyperbilirrubinemia and membrane hyaline disease, 60% each. Suspected sepsis was found in 47.7 % of the patients while confirmed sepsis was found in 32 patients (20.6%) Conclusions: Very low birth weight infants are at the highest mortality and morbidity risk no matter the delivery mode. More studies are need in order to rule out the impact of labor and the interruption of it has any impact over mortality and morbidity.