Global Prevalence and Severity of Retinopathy of Prematurity over the Last Four Decades (1985-2021): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a vasoproliferative disease of the retina that occurs in premature infants. The prevalence of ROP reported so far is inconsistent. AIM: To conduct a systematic review to describe the trend of ROP prevalence between 1985 and 2021, and to determine the influence of countries' economic conditions on ROP prevalence. METHODS: We searched PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar for studies published between January 1985 and December 2021 using the following MeSH terms: "retinopathy of prematurity", "ROP", "incidence", and "prevalence". Two independent reviewers examined the articles to select studies that met the selection criteria and performed data extraction and study quality assessment. For the meta-analysis, the pooled prevalence was calculated using a random-effects model and R software. RESULTS: Of 5,250 titles and abstracts, 139 original studies met the inclusion criteria; a total of 121,618 premature infants were included in these studies. The pooled prevalence of ROP was 31.9% (95% confidence interval [CI] 29.0-34.8) and that of severe ROP was 7.5% (6.5-8.7). In general, no significant differences in prevalence were found over the four decades; however, we found a higher prevalence in premature infants ≤28 weeks of gestational age. In addition, the highest ROP prevalence was found in lower-middle-income countries with high mortality rates. In contrast, the highest severe ROP prevalence was found in high-income countries. CONCLUSION: ROP remains a common cause of morbidity in premature infants worldwide. Therefore, it seems necessary to maintain early identification strategies for patients at higher risk, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

[Aswer to "Comment on article "Bibliometric analysis of scientific publications on COVID-19 elaborated by staff of the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social""]. / Respuesta a "Comentario al artículo "Análisis bibliométrico de las publicaciones científicas sobre COVID-19 realizadas por personal IMSS"".

We thank the group headed by Jorge Valencia Alonso for taking the time to review in detail and prepare the letter about our article entitled: " Bibliometric analysis of scientific publications on COVID-19 elaborated by staff of the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social", which has recently been published in the Medical Journal of the Mexican Social Security Institute. Based on your observations and comments, we allow ourselves to make the following clarifications following the same sequence of your letter to the Editor.

Agradecemos al grupo encabezado por Jorge Valencia Alonso por tomarse el tiempo para revisar con detalle y elaborar la carta sobre nuestro artículo titulado: "Análisis bibliométrico de las publicaciones científicas sobre COVID-19 por personal del IMSS", que recientemente se ha publicado en la Revista Médica del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social. De acuerdo con sus observaciones y comentarios, nos permitimos realizar las siguientes aclaraciones siguiendo la misma secuencia de su carta al Editor.

Risk factors for healthcare-associated infections in newborns after surgery in a neonatal intensive care unit.

BACKGROUND: Health care-associated infections (HAIs) are a common cause of morbidity and mortality. There is little information on the risk factors associated with HAI in surgical newborns. OBJECTIVE: To identify the risk factors associated with healthcare-associated infections in surgical newborns. METHODS: Nested case-control study carried out during 2016-2017. Cases were newborns with healthcare-associated infections and controls were newborns without infection. Perinatal characteristics, use of antimicrobial prophylaxis, use of central venous catheter (CVC), mechanical ventilation, parenteral nutrition, age, and weight at the time of surgery, type of surgery, surgical wound classification, duration of surgery, number of surgical procedures, postsurgical HAIs and type of infection were registered. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. RESULTS: Seventy-one cases and 142 controls were included. The most frequent HAI was bloodstream infection (36.6%); the main microorganisms isolated in blood cultures were gram-positive cocci. Independent risk factors associated with HAIs in the multivariate analysis were CVC duration > 8 days (aOR = 17.2, 95% CI = 3.8-49.1), ≥ 2 surgeries (aOR = 16.5, 95% CI 5.8 -42.1) and abdominal surgery (aOR = 2.6, 95% CI = 1.2-6.6). CONCLUSION: Newborns undergoing surgery, mainly those with risk factors, require close monitoring during the postoperative period. CVC should be withdrawn as soon as possible.

ANTECEDENTES: Las infecciones asociadas a la atención de la salud (IAAS) son causa frecuente de morbilidad y mortalidad. OBJETIVO: Identificar los factores de riesgo para el desarrollo de IAAS en recién nacidos (RN) sometidos a cirugía. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio de casos y controles anidado en una cohorte. Los casos fueron RN sometidos a cirugía, con IAAS y los controles, RN sometidos a cirugía sin IAAS. Se registraron datos perinatales, uso de profilaxis antimicrobiana, de catéter venoso central (CVC), ventilación mecánica, nutrición parenteral y sondas; edad y peso al momento de la cirugía, tipo de cirugía, clasificación de la herida quirúrgica, duración de la cirugía, número de procedimientos quirúrgicos y tipo de infección. Se realizó análisis univariado y multivariado. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 71 casos y 142 controles. Las IAAS más frecuentes fueron las infecciones sanguíneas (36.6 %); los principales microorganismos aislados en hemocultivos fueron cocos grampositivos. Los factores de riesgo asociados a IAAS en el análisis multivariado fueron duración del CVC > 8 días (RMa = 17.2), ≥ 2 intervenciones quirúrgicas (RMa = 16.5) y cirugía abdominal (RMa = 2.6). CONCLUSIONES: Los RN sometidos a cirugía, principalmente aquellos con factores de riesgo, requieren vigilancia estrecha durante el posoperatorio. El CVC debe ser retirado tan pronto sea posible.

Factores de riesgo para infecciones asociadas al cuidado de la salud en recién nacidos sometidos a cirugía en una unidad de cuidados intensivos neonatales / Risk factors for healthcare-associated infections in newborns after surgery in a neonatal intensive care unit

Resumen Antecedentes: Las infecciones asociadas a la atención de la salud (IAAS) son causa frecuente de morbilidad y mortalidad. Objetivo: Identificar los factores de riesgo para el desarrollo de IAAS en recién nacidos (RN) sometidos a cirugía. Material y métodos: Estudio de casos y controles anidado en una cohorte. Los casos fueron RN sometidos a cirugía, con IAAS y los controles, RN sometidos a cirugía sin IAAS. Se registraron datos perinatales, uso de profilaxis antimicrobiana, de catéter venoso central (CVC), ventilación mecánica, nutrición parenteral y sondas; edad y peso al momento de la cirugía, tipo de cirugía, clasificación de la herida quirúrgica, duración de la cirugía, número de procedimientos quirúrgicos y tipo de infección. Se realizó análisis univariado y multivariado. Resultados: Se incluyeron 71 casos y 142 controles. Las IAAS más frecuentes fueron las infecciones sanguíneas (36.6 %); los principales microorganismos aislados en hemocultivos fueron cocos grampositivos. Los factores de riesgo asociados a IAAS en el análisis multivariado fueron duración del CVC > 8 días (RMa = 17.2), ≥ 2 intervenciones quirúrgicas (RMa = 16.5) y cirugía abdominal (RMa = 2.6). Conclusiones: Los RN sometidos a cirugía, principalmente aquellos con factores de riesgo, requieren vigilancia estrecha durante el posoperatorio. El CVC debe ser retirado tan pronto sea posible.

Abstract Background: Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are a common cause of morbidity and mortality. Objective: To identify the risk factors for the development of HAIs in newborns (NBs) undergoing surgery. Material and methods: Nested case-control study. Cases were NBs undergoing surgery with HAIs, while controls were NBs undergoing surgery with no HAIs. Perinatal data, use of antimicrobial prophylaxis, use of central venous catheter (CVC), mechanical ventilation, parenteral nutrition, and other medical devices were recorded, as well as age and weight at the time of surgery, type of surgery, surgical wound classification, duration of surgery, number of surgical procedures, and type of infection. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. Results: Seventy-one cases and 142 controls were included. The most frequent HAI was bloodstream infection (36.6%); the main microorganisms isolated in blood cultures were gram-positive cocci. The risk factors associated with HAIs in the multivariate analysis were CVC duration > 8 days (aOR = 17.2), ≥ 2 surgical interventions (aOR = 16.5) and abdominal surgery (aOR = 2.6). Conclusions: NBs undergoing surgery, mainly those with risk factors, require close monitoring during the postoperative period. CVC should be withdrawn as soon as possible.

COVID-19 in Neonates with Positive RT-PCR Test. Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: COVID-19 is an infectious disease of variable severity caused by a new coronavirus. Clinical presentation ranges from asymptomatic cases to severe illness. Most cases in newborns appear to be asymptomatic or mild. OBJECTIVE: To conduct a systematic review of the literature on published studies of COVID-19 in newborns with a positive RT-PCR test. METHODS: The PubMed and EMBASE databases were searched for infection data in newborns from 1 December 2019-21 May 2021. The mesh terms included "SARS-CoV-2", "COVID-19", "novel coronavirus", "newborns" and "neonates". The selection criteria were as follows: original studies reporting clinical, radiological, laboratory, and outcome data in newborns with a positive RT-PCR test for SARS-CoV-2. Two independent investigators reviewed the studies. RESULTS: Seventy-two studies that involved 236 newborns were included. The main clinical manifestations were fever (43.2%), respiratory (46.6%), and gastrointestinal (35.2%) symptoms; 60.1% had mild/moderate disease. A total of 52.5% had a chest X-ray; 43.5% were normal, and 24.1% reported consolidation/infiltration images. The most frequent laboratory abnormalities were elevated C reactive protein and elevated procalcitonin and lymphopenia. Mortality was 1.7%. CONCLUSION: Symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 infection were mild to moderate in most of the newborns. The prognosis was good, and mortality was mainly associated with other comorbidities.

[Bibliometric analysis of scientific publications on COVID-19 elaborated by staff of the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social]. / Análisis bibliométrico de las publicaciones científicas sobre COVID-19 realizadas por personal IMSS.

Background: Since the beginning of the pandemic, new knowledge about COVID-19 obtained by research has been disseminated in medical and scientific journals, but the large number of publications that have been generated in such a short time has been impressive. Objective: To perform a bibliometric analysis of the published articles in medical-scientific journals carried-out by the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) personnel on COVID-19. Material and methods: Systematic review of the literature, identifying the publications included in the PubMed and EMBASE databases, up to September 2022. Articles on COVID-19 were included, in which at least one author had IMSS affiliation; there was no restriction on the type of publication, so original articles, review articles, clinical case reports, etc. were included. The analysis was descriptive. Results: 588 abstracts were obtained, of which 533 full length articles met the selection criteria. Most were research articles (48%), followed by review articles. Mainly clinical or epidemiological aspects were addressed. They were published in 232 different journals, with a predominance of foreign journals (91.8%). Around half of the publications were carried out by IMSS personnel together with authors from other institutions, national or foreign. Conclusions: The scientific contributions prepared by IMSS personnel have contributed to understanding clinical, epidemiological and basic aspects of COVID-19, which has had an impact on improving the quality of care for its beneficiaries.

Introducción: desde el inicio de la pandemia los nuevos conocimientos sobre COVID-19 han sido difundidos en revistas médico-científicas, y ha sido impresionante la gran cantidad de publicaciones que se ha generado en tan poco tiempo. Objetivo: realizar un análisis bibliométrico de los artículos publicados en revistas médico-científicas elaborados por personal del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS) sobre COVID-19. Material y métodos: revisión sistemática de la literatura, identificando las publicaciones incluidas en las bases de datos PubMed y EMBASE, hasta septiembre de 2022. Se incluyeron los artículos sobre COVID-19 en los que al menos un autor tuviera adscripción IMSS, sin restricción del tipo de publicación, por lo que se incluyeron artículos originales, de revisión, reportes de casos clínicos, etc. El análisis fue de tipo descriptivo. Resultados: se obtuvieron 588 resúmenes, de los cuales 533 artículos cumplieron con los criterios de selección. La mayoría correspondió a artículos de investigación y revisión. Principalmente se abordaron aspectos clínicos o epidemiológicos. Se publicaron en 232 revistas diferentes, predominando revistas extranjeras (91.8%). Alrededor de la mitad de las publicaciones fueron realizadas por personal del IMSS en conjunto con autores de otras instituciones, nacionales o extranjeras. Conclusiones: las aportaciones científicas elaboradas por personal del IMSS han contribuido a conocer aspectos clínicos, epidemiológicos y básicos sobre COVID-19, lo cual ha impactado en la mejora de la calidad de atención de sus derechohabientes.

[Risk, association, and impact measures in clinical research studies. How to interpret them for their application in medical care]. / Medidas de riesgo, asociación e impacto en los estudios de investigación clínica. Cómo interpretarlas para su aplicación en la atención médica.

The practice of evidence-based medicine includes the critical analysis of clinical research studies, and, within it, the interpretation of the results reported. In addition, to statistical data, there are estimators that can help clinicians transfer research findings to routine clinical practice. These estimators are measures of risk, association, and impact. Risk measures report current uncertainty or probability (prevalence of a disease, sensitivity, specificity) or for future events (cumulative incidence, incidence density). Measures of association are related to the identification of the risk in order to determine whether certain factors increase or decrease the probability of development of a disease (relative risk, odds ratio, hazard ratio). While measures of impact allow, among other things, to estimate the effect of a treatment (relative risk reduction, absolute risk reduction, number needed to treat). In this review, each of these estimators is described, defined, and presented with examples.

Parte del ejercicio de la medicina basada en evidencia incluye el análisis crítico de los estudios de investigación clínica y dentro de este, la interpretación de los resultados presentados. Además de los datos estadísticos, existen estimadores que pueden ayudar a los clínicos a trasladar los hallazgos de las investigaciones a la práctica clínica habitual. Estos estimadores son las medidas de riesgo, asociación e impacto. Las medidas de riesgo informan sobre la incertidumbre o probabilidad en el presente (prevalencia de una enfermedad, sensibilidad, especificidad) o para eventos futuros (incidencia acumulada, densidad de incidencia). Las medidas de asociación se relacionan con la identificación del riesgo para determinar si ciertos factores aumentan o disminuyen la probabilidad del desarrollo de una enfermedad (riesgo relativo, razón de momios, cociente de riesgo). Mientras que las medidas de impacto permiten, entre otros, estimar el efecto de un tratamiento (reducción del riesgo relativo, reducción del riesgo absoluto, número necesario por tratar). En esta revisión se describen, definen y presentan ejemplos de cada uno de estos estimadores.

Péptido natriurético cerebral tipo B como marcador de sobrecarga hemodinámica del conducto arterioso permeable en el recién nacido prematuro / B-type brain natriuretic peptide as marker of hemodynamic overload of the patent ductus arteriosus in the preterm infant

Resumen Introducción: El ecocardiograma es el método de referencia para el diagnóstico del conducto arterioso permeable (CAP) hemodinámicamente significativo (CAP-hs) del recién nacido prematuro (RNP). El péptido natriurético tipo B (BNP) puede ser útil en el diagnóstico y el manejo del CAP-hs. Objetivo: Evaluar la utilidad del BNP como marcador de sobrecarga hemodinámica del conducto arterioso permeable en el RNP con edad gestacional < 32 semanas o peso < 1500 gramos, e identificar el mejor punto de corte para los valores de BNP que mejor prediga un CAP con repercusión hemodinámica que requiera tratamiento farmacológico o quirúrgico. Método: Estudio retrospectivo, observacional y descriptivo de RNP < 32 semanas de gestación o peso < 1500 gramos en los que se realizó ecocardiograma y determinación del BNP. Análisis de muestra global y por subgrupos, en función del CAP-hs. Resultados: Se analizaron 29 pacientes. Se encontró una correlación significativa entre la relación CAP/peso y los valores del BNP (prueba de Spearman: 0.71; intervalo de confianza del 95%: 0.45-0.87; p < 0.001). El mejor punto de corte del BNP para predecir CAP-hs fue 486.5 pg/ml, con una sensibilidad del 81% y una especificidad del 92% (p < 0.001). Conclusión: El punto de corte del BNP identificado en el presente estudio se correlacionó con la presencia de CAP-hs.

Abstract Introduction: The echocardiogram is the gold standard, in the diagnosis of the hemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus (hs-PDA) of the premature newborn (PNB). Type B natriuretic peptide (BNP) may be useful in the diagnosis and management of CAP-hs. Objective: To assess the utility of BNP as a marker of hemodynamic overload of the patent ductus arteriosus in newborns with gestational age < 32 weeks or weight < 1500 grams, and to identify the best cut-off point for BNP levels that would best predict a PDA with hemodynamic impact requiring pharmacological and/or surgical treatment. Methods: Retrospective, observational and descriptive study of PNB < 32 weeks gestation or weight < 1500 grams, in which echocardiogram and BNP determination was performed. Analysis of the global sample and by subgroups, depending on the hs-PDA status was performed. Results: A total of 29 patients were analyzed. A significant correlation was found between the PDA/weight ratio and BNP levels (Spearman: 0.71; 95% confidence interval: 0.45-0.87; p < 0.001). The best BNP cut-off point to predict CAP-hs was 486.5 pg/ml with a sensitivity of 81% and specificity of 92% (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The BNP cut-off point identified in the present study was correlated with the presence of CAP-hs.

[B-type brain natriuretic peptide as marker of hemodynamic overload of the patent ductus arteriosus in the preterm infant]. / Péptido natriurético cerebral tipo B como marcador de sobrecarga hemodinámica del conducto arterioso permeable en el recién nacido prematuro.

Introducción: El ecocardiograma es el método de referencia para el diagnóstico del conducto arterioso permeable (CAP) hemodinámicamente significativo (CAP-hs) del recién nacido prematuro (RNP). El péptido natriurético tipo B (BNP) puede ser útil en el diagnóstico y el manejo del CAP-hs. Objetivo: Evaluar la utilidad del BNP como marcador de sobrecarga hemodinámica del conducto arterioso permeable en el RNP con edad gestacional < 32 semanas o peso < 1500 gramos, e identificar el mejor punto de corte para los valores de BNP que mejor prediga un CAP con repercusión hemodinámica que requiera tratamiento farmacológico o quirúrgico. Método: Estudio retrospectivo, observacional y descriptivo de RNP < 32 semanas de gestación o peso < 1500 gramos en los que se realizó ecocardiograma y determinación del BNP. Análisis de muestra global y por subgrupos, en función del CAP-hs. Resultados: Se analizaron 29 pacientes. Se encontró una correlación significativa entre la relación CAP/peso y los valores del BNP (prueba de Spearman: 0.71; intervalo de confianza del 95%: 0.45-0.87; p < 0.001). El mejor punto de corte del BNP para predecir CAP-hs fue 486.5 pg/ml, con una sensibilidad del 81% y una especificidad del 92% (p < 0.001). Conclusión: El punto de corte del BNP identificado en el presente estudio se correlacionó con la presencia de CAP-hs.

Systematic review and meta-analysis as a support tools for research and clinical practice.

Systematic reviews are secondary investigations that compile published results that have been obtained from studies involving human subjects. Meta-analysis is the term used to describe the carrying out of statistical analysis of the combination of the results of two or more original studies, which had to be selected from a systematic review. In this way, a meta-analysis cannot exist without a systematic review. Systematic reviews arise due to the exponential increase in the information; to provide all health personnel with a study that critically analyzes the results and discriminates those that may be useful in clinical practice. Systematic reviews are one of the fundamental tools in evidence-based medicine, in which two of the main steps refer to both the search and the critical analysis of the studies, which shall support medical decisions on aspects that are mainly related to diagnosis, treatment, or prognosis. On the other hand, systematic reviews have been essential for some time now when developing evidence-based clinical practice guidelines and they can be used to make decisions on health policies. The methodology for performing and interpreting systematic reviews and meta-analysis is described in this article.

Las revisiones sistemáticas son investigaciones secundarias que compilan los resultados publicados obtenidos a partir de estudios en seres humanos. El término metaanálisis es utilizado para describir el análisis estadístico de la combinación de los resultados de dos o más estudios originales, los cuales debieron ser seleccionados a partir de una revisión sistemática. De esta forma, no puede haber metaanálisis sin una revisión sistemática. Las revisiones sistemáticas surgen debido al incremento exponencial de la información, para facilitar un estudio que analice críticamente los resultados y discrimine los que puedan ser útiles en la práctica clínica. Las revisiones sistemáticas son una de las herramientas fundamentales en la medicina basada en evidencia, en la cual dos de los pasos principales se refieren a la búsqueda y lectura crítica de los estudios, que apoyarán las decisiones médicas sobre aspectos relacionados principalmente con el diagnóstico, tratamiento o pronóstico. Por otro lado, desde hace tiempo, las revisiones sistemáticas son imprescindibles al elaborar guías de práctica clínica basadas en evidencia y pueden ser utilizadas para tomar decisiones en políticas de salud. En este artículo se describe la metodología para la realización e interpretación de revisiones sistemáticas y metaanálisis.

Experience of Minimally Invasive Surgery in Neonates with Congenital Malformations in a Tertiary Care Pediatric Hospital.

AIM: The aim of this study is to report the experience with minimally invasive surgery (MIS) in neonates with congenital malformations in a tertiary care pediatric hospital. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Design: descriptive study. All neonates undergoing MIS from 2013 to 2018 were included in the study. Perinatal data, characteristics of surgery, type and duration of analgesia, postoperative mechanical ventilation duration, postoperative hospitalization, and postoperative morbidity and mortality surgery-related rates were recorded. RESULTS: Seventy-one neonates were included. Gestational age and weight at surgery ranged from 24 to 41 weeks and from 1350 g to 4830 g, respectively. Procedures performed were esophageal atresia/tracheoesophageal fistula repair, congenital diaphragmatic hernia repair, diaphragmatic plication, fundoplication/gastrostomy, intestinal atresia repair, and pancreatectomy. The median follow-up period was 14 months. Five neonates (7%) were converted to open, for surgical difficulties. Nine (12.6%) neonates had intraoperative complications, with decreased oxygen saturation as the most common complication. The median duration of analgesia and postoperative mechanical ventilation was 3 days in most procedures. The morbidity and mortality rates were 36.6% and 2.8%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: In this first experience with MIS in neonates, the duration of analgesia and hospitalization was shorter for some procedures. However, intraoperative and postoperative complications were still high, which was possibly attributed to the learning curve. Thus, it is expected that the frequency of the complications presented in this study will be reduced in future.

Risk Factors for Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection in Critically Ill Neonates.

OBJECTIVE: To identify independent risk factors to develop a central line- associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) in critically ill neonates with major underlying diseases. METHODS: A nested case-control study was conducted in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Patients with a central venous catheter (CVC) were included. Cases were neonates who developed a CLABSI and controls were patients without CLABSI. Variables included: perinatal history, characteristics of the catheter, installation and catheter use, surgical interventions, and hospital stay. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. X2, Fisher exact, and Mann-Whitney U tests were used when appropriate. Variables with a p value ≤0.10 in the univariate analysis were introduced in a non-conditional logistic regression model. RESULTS: Seventy four cases and 105 controls were analyzed. Univariate risk factors were: any surgery, abdominal surgery, length of hospitalization (≥14 d), double-lumen CVC, surgical cut-down technique, complications, CVC placement in internal jugular vein, dressing type, blood transfusions, parenteral nutrition, and number of CVC manipulations (>200). In the logistic regression analysis, independent risk factors with a p value <0.05 were: double-lumen catheter (OR 5.8, 95% CI 1.2-30), length of hospitalization ≥14 d (OR 4.6, 95% CI 1.8-11.4), abdominal surgery (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.2-6.2) and blood transfusions (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.2-5.3). CONCLUSIONS: One risk factor was related to the catheter itself. Management of underlying diseases in specialized NICU contributes to a greater extent to the development of a central line-associated bloodstream infection.

[Frecuencia y gravedad de la retinopatía del prematuro en una unidad de cuidados intensivos neonatales].

INTRODUCTION: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a disease where retinal blood vessels do not develop normally and may cause visual damage and blindness. OBJECTIVE: To determine the frequency and severity of ROP in preterm newborns. METHOD: A descriptive, comparative study was carried out within the 2009-2013 period. Patients' general characteristics were recorded, including gestational age and postmenstrual age at the moment of ophthalmologic examination, as well as ROP severity and type of treatment. RESULTS: A total of 326 preterm newborns were included: 47.8 % (n = 156) had ROP; in 21.1 % it was severe (stage ≥ 3). Median gestational age was 28 weeks in preterm newborns with ROP, median birth weight was 1000 g, and median postmenstrual age at ophthalmological examination was 36 weeks. Of the infants with ROP, 71.1 % received treatment: 63.4 % of those who had mild ROP and 100 % of those with severe ROP. CONCLUSIONS: ROP frequency was high, higher than that reported in developed countries and similar to that in developing countries. The frequency of severe ROP was also higher. It is necessary for effective programs for the detection and opportune treatment of ROP to be established.

INTRODUCCIÓN: La retinopatía del prematuro (ROP) es una enfermedad en la que los vasos sanguíneos de la retina no se desarrollan normalmente, lo que puede ocasionar daño visual y ceguera. OBJETIVO: Identificar la frecuencia y gravedad de la ROP en recién nacidos prematuros. MÉTODO: Estudio descriptivo comparativo realizado en el periodo 2009-2013. Se registraron características generales de los pacientes, edad posnatal y edad posconcepcional al momento de la exploración oftalmológica, así como gravedad y tratamiento de la ROP. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 326 recién nacidos prematuros: 47.8 % (n = 156) tuvo ROP, en 21.1 % fue grave (estadio ≥ 3). La mediana de la edad gestacional fue de 28 semanas en los recién nacidos prematuros con ROP, el peso al nacer fue de 1000 g y la edad posconcepcional a la exploración oftalmológica fue de 36 semanas. De los niños con ROP, 71.1 % recibió tratamiento, 63.4 % de aquellos que tuvieron ROP leve y 100 % de aquellos con ROP grave. CONCLUSIONES: La frecuencia de ROP fue alta, mayor a la reportada en los países desarrollados y similar a la de otros países en desarrollo. La frecuencia de ROP grave también fue mayor. Es necesario establecer programas efectivos de detección y tratamiento oportuno de ROP.

Evaluating the quality of the processes of care and clinical outcomes of premature newborns admitted to neonatal intensive care units in Mexico.

OBJECTIVES: To develop quality of care (QoC) indicators, evaluate the quality of the processes of care (QPC) and clinical outcomes, and analyze the association between the QPC and severe clinical outcomes of preterm newborns admitted to neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). DESIGN: Mixed methods approach: (1) development of QoC indicators via modified RAND/UCLA method; (2) cross-sectional study of QoC evaluation and (3) multiple logistic regression analysis to ascertain the association between the QPC and severe clinical outcomes. SETTING: Two NICUs belonged to the Mexican Institute of Social Security in Mexico City. PARTICIPANTS: About 489 preterm neonates (<37 weeks of gestation) without severe congenital anomalies. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): The QoC indicators; ≥60% of recommended QPC and severe clinical outcomes. RESULTS: The QoC included 10 QPC indicators across four domains: respiratory, nutrition and metabolism, infectious diseases, and screening, and five outcome indicators. The lower QPC indicators were for the nutrition and metabolism domain (17.8% started enteral feeding with human milk, and 20.7% received sodium bicarbonate appropriately). The higher QPC indicator was for the screening domain (97.6% of neonates <30 weeks gestation underwent early (≤14 days) transfontanelar ultrasound). The mean recommended QPC that neonates received was 47.5%. Only 26.6% of neonates received ≥60% of recommended QPC. About 60.7% of neonates developed severe clinical outcomes including mortality and healthcare-related major morbidity. Receiving ≥60% of recommended QPC was associated with a decrease of nearly half of odds of severe clinical outcomes. CONCLUSION: The evaluation of the QoC in NICUs is essential to address modifiable gaps in quality.

Risk factors for nosocomial infections after cardiac surgery in newborns with congenital heart disease.

BACKGROUND: Congenital heart diseases are among the most common congenital malformations. Approximately 50% of the patients with congenital heart disease undergo cardiac surgery. Nosocomial infections (NIs) are the main complications and an important cause of increased morbidity and mortality associated with congenital heart diseases. This study's objective was to identify the risk factors associated with the development of NIs after cardiac surgery in newborns with congenital heart disease. METHODS: This was a nested case-control study that included 112 newborns, including 56 cases (with NI) and 56 controls (without NI). Variables analyzed included perinatal history, associated congenital malformations, Risk-Adjusted Congenital Heart Surgery (RACHS-1) score, perioperative and postoperative factors, transfusions, length of central venous catheter, nutritional support, and mechanical ventilation. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Differences were calculated with the Mann-Whitney-U test, Pearson X2, or Fisher's exact test. A multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the independent risk factors. RESULTS: Sepsis was the most common NI (37.5%), and the main causative microorganisms were gram-positive cocci. The independent risk factors associated with NI were non-cardiac congenital malformations (OR 6.1, CI 95% 1.3-29.4), central venous catheter indwelling time > 14 days (OR 3.7, CI 95% 1.3-11.0), duration of mechanical ventilation > 7 days (OR 6.6, CI 95% 2.1-20.1), and ≥5 transfusions of blood products (OR 3.1, CI 95% 1.3-8.5). Mortality attributed to NI was 17.8%. CONCLUSION: Newborns with non-cardiac congenital malformations and with >7 days of mechanical ventilation were at higher risk for a postoperative NI. Efforts must focus on preventable infections, especially in bloodstream catheter-related infections, which account for 20.5% of all NIs.

[Risk factors for nosocomial infection in a level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit]. / Factores de riesgo asociados a infección nosocomial (IN) en una Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Neonatales (UCIN) de tercer nivel.

INTRODUCTION: Nosocomial infections are a major and a frequent problem in neonatal intensive care units and increase morbidity, mortality, and costs. The objective of this study was to identify the risk factors associated with nosocomial infections in a neonatal intensive care unit. METHODS: Nested case control study. Records from patients were registered: gestational age, sex, birth weight, central venous catheter and other devices, congenital malformations, surgeries, mechanical ventilation, steroid use, H2 blockers, length of stay in neonatal intensive care unit, type of infection, and etiological agent. RESULTS: We studied 188 cases with nosocomial infections and 192 controls without nosocomial infections. The most frequent infection was sepsis (34.8%) and coagulase negative Staphylococcus was the principal etiological agent (37.2%). The risk factors associated with nosocomial infection were central venous catheter (OR: 7.3; 95% CI: 2.3-22.8), duration of neonatal intensive care unit stay>14 days (OR: 3.4; 95% CI: 1.7-6.7), H2 blockers (OR: 2.3; 95% CI: 1.2-4.2), number of surgeries≥2 (OR: 3; 95% CI: 1.1-7.9) and mechanical ventilation>7 days (OR: 2.1; 95% CI: 1.1-4.2). CONCLUSIONS: Some risk factors associated to nosocomial infections in this study are similar to those found previously, with the exception of the number of surgeries that was not reported in previous studies.

[Survival and complication rate of central venous catheters in newborns]. / Duración y frecuencia de complicaciones de los catéteres venosos centrales en recién nacidos.

BACKGROUND: In the current medical practice, central venous catheters (CVC) are very useful; however, their use involves certain risks, which increase morbidity and mortality, especially in newborns. The aim of this study was to describe both the frequency of complications and survival of CVC placed in newborns hospitalized in a third level neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). METHODS: A descriptive, observational and prospective study was carried-out in the NICU from the Hospital de Pediatría, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI. Demographic, perinatal and CVC variables were recorded. RESULTS: We included 152 CVCs, which were inserted in 123 newborns. For the CVC insertion, the puncture technique [percutaneous and subclavian] was used in 56.6 % (n = 86). There was at least one complication in 48.7 %.(n = 74). The most frequent complications were colonization 32.4 % (n = 24) and CVC-related bacteremia in 27 % (n = 20). Survival probability for CVC was 93.4 % at 10 days and 91.4 % at 17 days. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrated significantly lower survival probability for non-central catheters. CONCLUSIONS: Most of CVC complications occurred within the first two weeks after these CVC were installed. Infectious complications were the most frequent.

Introducción: los catéteres venosos centrales (CVC) son de gran utilidad en la práctica médica actual; sin embargo, no están exentos de riesgos, lo que incrementa la morbilidad y mortalidad, especialmente en los recién nacidos (RN). El objetivo fue registrar la frecuencia de complicaciones de los CVC y su duración en RN en una unidad de cuidados intensivos neonatales (UCIN) de tercer nivel. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo, prolectivo en la UCIN del Hospital de Pediatría del Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI. Se registraron variables demográficas, perinatales y del CVC. Resultados: se incluyeron 123 RN a quienes se les colocaron 152 CVC. La técnica más usada para la inserción del CVC fue la punción (percutánea o subclavia) en 56.6 % (n = 86). En 48.7 % (n = 74) de los CVC se presentó alguna complicación. Las más frecuentes fueron colonización en 32.4 % (n = 24) y bacteriemia relacionada con CVC en 27 % (n = 20). La probabilidad de duración de los CVC libres de complicaciones fue de 93.4 % a los 10 días y de 91.4 % a los 17 días. Los catéteres venosos no centrales tuvieron menor probabilidad de duración. Conclusión: la mayoría de las complicaciones de los CVC se presentaron en las primeras dos semanas de haber sido instalados. Las complicaciones infecciosas fueron las más frecuentes.

[Epidemiology of nosocomial infections in a neonatal intensive care unit]. / Epidemiología de las infecciones nosocomiales en una unidad de cuidados intensivos neonatales.

BACKGROUND: Newborns who are admitted to neonatal intensive care units are at a high risk for the development of a nosocomial infection. The purpose of this study was to record the incidence and the type of nosocomial infections, the isolated microorganisms and the susceptibility profile of these newborns in a neonatal intensive care unit. METHODS: A descriptive, prospective, longitudinal study was conducted over a 1-year period. Out of 113 newborns with nosocomial infection, demographic variables, antibiotic use prior to admission, central venous catheter use, type of nosocomial infection, isolated microorganism and susceptibility profile were recorded. RESULTS: One hundred and forty nine nosocomial infection episodes were recorded, with an incidence of 37.7 × 100 discharges and an incidence density rate of 25.6 × 1000 patient-days. The most common nosocomial infections were central venous catheter colonization related bacteremia (35.5 %) and sepsis (28.8 %). The most common microorganisms were coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (43.4 %) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (21 %), out of which 97.3 % were extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producers. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of nosocomial infection was similar to that reported in developing countries. Central venous catheter colonization-related bacteremia and gram-positive bacteria were the most common nosocomial infection and causative microorganisms, respectively.

INTRODUCCIÓN: el recién nacido hospitalizado en una unidad de cuidados intensivos tiene alto riesgo de desarrollar una infección nosocomial. El objetivo de este estudio fue registrar la incidencia y el tipo de infecciones nosocomiales, los microorganismos aislados y el perfil de susceptibilidad de estos en recién nacidos atendidos en una unidad de cuidados intensivos neonatales. MÉTODOS: se llevó a cabo un estudio descriptivo prospectivo longitudinal durante un año. De 113 recién nacidos que presentaron infección nosocomial, se registraron variables demográficas, uso de antibióticos antes del ingreso y de catéter venoso central, tipo de infección, microorganismo aislado y perfil de susceptibilidad. RESULTADOS: se registraron 149 infecciones nosocomiales, cuya incidencia fue de 37.7 × 100 egresos y su densidad de incidencia fue de 25.6 por cada 1000 días-paciente. Las infecciones nosocomiales más frecuentes fueron bacteriemia relacionada con la colonización del catéter venoso central (35.5 %) y la sepsis (28.8 %). Los principales microorganismos fueron los Sthapylococcus coagulasa negativa (43.4 %), todos resistentes a meticilina, y Klebsiella pneumoniae (21 %); 97.3 % de estos era productor de betalactamasas de espectro extendido. CONCLUSIONES: la incidencia de la infección nosocomial fue similar a la informada en los países en desarrollo. La bacteriemia relacionada con la colonización del catéter venoso central y los grampositivos fueron la infección nosocomial y los microorganismos causales más frecuentes.

[Survival and morbidity of infants with necrotizing enterocolitis treated with surgery]. / Cirugía en enterocolitis necrotizante en niños. Supervivencia y morbilidad.

OBJECTIVES: to determine the survival rate and type of morbidity during the first year of life of infants with necrotizing enterocolitis (NED) who underwent to surgical treatment. METHODS: a comparative and descriptive study was performed. Thirty two children with NEC (19 deaths and 13 survivals) who underwent to surgery during neonatal period were studied. Perinatal conditions, surgical procedures and findings, morbidity and survival rate during the first year of life were registered. RESULTS: all patients underwent to laparotomy, except three patients who died and were managed with peritoneal drainage only. During the first year of life, cholestasis and intestinal obstruction were the main causes of morbidity in survivals and deaths. Survival rate during neonatal period was 78 %, and 40.6% in the first year of life. CONCLUSIONS: morbidities during the first year of life were related to surgery. In this series, there was a high survival rate in neonatal period, which diminished in the first year of life.

Frecuencia de lesión de la vía aérea identificada por broncoscopia en recién nacidos con intubación endotraqueal prolongada en una unidad de cuidados intensivos neonatales de tercer nivel / Frequency and type of airway injury identified by bronchoscopic examination in newborns with prolonged endotracheal intubation in a neonatal intensive care unit

Introducción. La intubación endotraqueal y la ventilación mecánica son recursos que se utilizan frecuentemente en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Neonatales. Sin embargo, se ha observado que elevan significativamente la mortalidad, dado que se presentan complicaciones. Por tanto, el objetivo de este trabajo fue reportar la frecuencia y el tipo de lesiones de la vía aérea en recién nacidos con intubación endotraqueal prolongada a quienes se les realizó broncoscopia. Métodos. Se incluyeron 150 recién nacidos con tiempo de intubación endotraqueal ≥ 5 días a quienes se les realizó broncoscopia. Se registraron las siguientes variables: edad gestacional, peso al nacer, indicación de la intubación, tamaño del tubo endotraqueal, número de reintubaciones, tiempo de intubación, indicación de la broncoscopia, hallazgos de la broncoscopia, tipo de tratamiento y número de broncoscopias. Resultados. La principal indicación de la broncoscopia fue la atelectasia persistente o recidivante. Del total de los pacientes, 96% presentaron alguna alteración de la vía aérea. Predominaron las lesiones inflamatorias (67.3%), seguidas de malacia (39.3%) y estenosis (28.7%). Las estructuras anatómicas más afectadas fueron los bronquios (31.6%), la laringe (24%) y la tráquea (22%). En 126 pacientes se indicó tratamiento médico; los esteroides se utilizaron con mayor frecuencia. Además del tratamiento médico, a 21 pacientes (14%) se les realizó dilatación bajo broncoscopia y a 7 (4.6%), traqueostomía. Conclusiones. Las lesiones más frecuentes fueron de tipo inflamatorio. La atelectasia persistente fue la principal manifestación clínica, por lo que se sugiere considerarla para que, durante la exploración broncoscópica, se descarte lesión de la vía aérea en recién nacidos con intubación endotraqueal prolongada.

Background. Endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation are frequently use resources in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Higher mortality has been observed as a result of complications. We undertook this study to report the frequency and type of airway injury in newborns with prolonged endotracheal intubation who underwent bronchoscopy examination. methods. Newborns (n = 150) who were intubated endotracheally for ≥ 5 consecutive days and who underwent bronchoscopy were included. We recorded the following variables: gestational age, birth weight, indications for intubation, size of endotracheal tube, number of reintubations, intubation length, indication for bronchoscopy, bronchoscopic findings, type of treatment for airway injury, and number of bronchoscopies. Results. The main indication for bronchoscopy was atelectasis (persistent and/or recurrent); 96% of newborns had at least one injury. The most frequent were inflammatory type (67.3%), malacia (39.3%), and stenosis (28.7%). The most injured anatomic structures were the bronchi (31.6%), larynx (24%), and trachea (22%). For 126 patients, primary medical treatment was steroids. For 21 patients (14%), dilatation was performed under bronchoscopy; and for 7 (4.6%) patients, tracheostomy was performed. Conclusions. The most frequent injuries were inflammatory-type. Persistent atelectasis was the principal clinical manifestation; therefore, it should be considered as an indication of bronchoscopic exploration to identify airway injury in newborns with prolonged endotracheal intubation.