Supplemental Iron and Recombinant Erythropoietin for Anemia in Infants Born Very Preterm: A Survey of Clinical Practice in Europe.

OBJECTIVES: To survey practices of iron and recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEpo) administration to infants born preterm across Europe. STUDY DESIGN: Over a 3-month period, we conducted an online survey in 597 neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) of 18 European countries treating infants born with a gestational age of <32 weeks. RESULTS: We included 343 NICUs (response rate 56.3%) in the survey. Almost all NICUs (97.7%) routinely supplement enteral iron, and 74.3% of respondents to all infants born <32 weeks of gestation. We found that 65.3% of NICUs routinely evaluate erythropoiesis and iron parameters beyond day 28 after birth. Most NICUs initiate iron supplementation at postnatal age of 2 weeks and stop after 6 months (34.3%) or 12 months (34.3%). Routine use of rhEpo was reported in 22.2% of NICUs, and in individual cases in 6.9%. RhEpo was mostly administered subcutaneously (70.1%) and most frequently at a dose of 250 U/kg 3 times a week (44.3%), but the dose varied greatly between centers. CONCLUSIONS: This survey highlights wide heterogeneity in evaluating erythropoietic activity and iron deficiency in infants born preterm. Variation in iron supplementation during infancy likely reflects an inadequate evidence base. Current evidence on the efficacy and safety profile of rhEpo is only poorly translated into clinical practice. This survey demonstrates a need for standards to optimize patient blood management in anemia of prematurity.

Association between type of feeding at hospital discharge and nutritional status of Brazilian very preterm infants: a multicenter study.

OBJECTIVES: To examine trends over time in diet and size of very preterm infants, and associations of diet with size at hospital discharge/transfer. METHODS: The authors studied 4062 surviving very preterm infants born < 32 weeks' gestational age and < 1500 g between January 2012 and December 2020 from 12 Brazilian Neonatal Intensive Care Units. Diet type at discharge/transfer was classified as exclusive human milk, exclusive formula, or mixed. Outcomes were weight and head circumference at hospital discharge and the change in each from birth to discharge. The authors used linear regression to estimate adjusted associations of diet type with infant size, overall, and stratified by fetal growth category (small vs. appropriate for gestational age). The authors also examined trends in diet and infant size at discharge over the years. RESULTS: Infants' mean gestational age at birth was 29.3 weeks, and the mean birth weight was 1136 g. Diet at discharge/transfer was exclusive human milk for 22 %, mixed for 62 %, and exclusive formula for 16 %. Infant size in weight and head circumference were substantially below the growth chart reference for all diets. Infants fed human milk and mixed diets were lighter and had smaller heads at discharge/transfer than infants fed formula only (weight z: -2.0, -1.8, and -1.5; head z: -1.3, -1.2 and -1.1 for exclusive human milk, mixed and exclusive formula respectively). CONCLUSION: Results suggest high human milk use but gaps in nutrient delivery among hospitalized Brazilian very preterm infants, with little evidence of improvement over time.

Prevalencia de osteopenia del prematuro antes y después de la implementación de una estrategia temprana de manejo fosfocálcico / Prevalence of osteopenia of prematurity before and after implementing an early strategy with the use of calcium and phosphate

Introducción. Con el uso de la nutrición parenteral agresiva en recién nacidos de muy bajo peso, se detectaron alteraciones del metabolismo fosfocálcico. En 2016 se implementó una estrategia de prevención a través del monitoreo fosfocálcico y su suplementación temprana. El objetivo fue estudiar si esta estrategia disminuye la prevalencia de osteopenia e identificar factores de riesgo asociados. Población y métodos. Estudio cuasiexperimental que comparó la prevalencia de osteopenia entre dos grupos: uno después de implementar la estrategia de monitoreo y suplementación fosfocálcica (01/01/2017-31/12/2019), y otro previo a dicha intervención (01/01/2013-31/12/2015). Resultados. Se incluyeron 226 pacientes: 133 pertenecen al período preintervención y 93 al posintervención. La prevalencia de osteopenia global fue del 26,1 % (IC95% 20,5-32,3) y disminuyó del 29,3 % (IC95% 21,7-37,8) en el período preintervención al 21,5 % (IC95% 13,6-31,2) en el posintervención, sin significancia estadística (p = 0,19). En el análisis multivariado, el puntaje NEOCOSUR de riesgo de muerte al nacer, recibir corticoides posnatales y el período de intervención se asociaron de manera independiente a osteopenia. Haber nacido luego de la intervención disminuyó un 71 % la probabilidad de presentar fosfatasa alcalina >500 UI/L independientemente de las restantes variables incluidas en el modelo. Conclusión. La monitorización y suplementación fosfocálcica precoz constituye un factor protector para el desarrollo de osteopenia en recién nacidos con muy bajo peso al nacer.

Introduction. With the use of aggressive parenteral nutrition in very low birth weight infants, alterations in calcium and phosphate metabolism were detected. In 2016, a prevention strategy was implemented through calcium phosphate monitoring and early supplementation. Our objective was to study whether this strategy reduces the prevalence of osteopenia and to identify associated risk factors. Population and methods. Quasi-experiment comparing the prevalence of osteopenia between two groups: one after implementing the calcium phosphate monitoring and supplementation strategy (01/01/2017­12/31/2019) and another prior to such intervention (01/01/2013­12/31/2015). Results. A total of 226 patients were included: 133 in the pre-intervention period and 93 in the post-intervention period. The overall prevalence of osteopenia was 26.1% (95% CI: 20.5­32.3) and it was reduced from 29.3% (95% CI: 21.7­37.8) in the pre-intervention period to 21.5% (95% CI: 13.6­31.2) in the post-intervention period, with no statistical significance (p = 0.19). In the multivariate analysis, the NEOCOSUR score for risk of death at birth, use of postnatal corticosteroids, and the intervention period were independently associated with osteopenia. Being born after the intervention reduced the probability of alkaline phosphatase > 500 IU/L by 71%, regardless of the other variables included in the model. Conclusion. Calcium phosphate monitoring and early supplementation is a protective factor against the development of osteopenia in very low birth weight infants.

Prevalence of osteopenia of prematurity before and after implementing an early strategy with the use of calcium and phosphate. / Prevalencia de osteopenia del prematuro antes y después de la implementación de una estrategia temprana de manejo fosfocálcico.

Introduction. With the use of aggressive parenteral nutrition in very low birth weight infants, alterations in calcium and phosphate metabolism were detected. In 2016, a prevention strategy was implemented through calcium phosphate monitoring and early supplementation. Our objective was to study whether this strategy reduces the prevalence of osteopenia and to identify associated risk factors. Population and methods. Quasi-experiment comparing the prevalence of osteopenia between two groups: one after implementing the calcium phosphate monitoring and supplementation strategy (01/01/2017-12/31/2019) and another prior to such intervention (01/01/2013-12/31/2015). Results. A total of 226 patients were included: 133 in the pre-intervention period and 93 in the post-intervention period. The overall prevalence of osteopenia was 26.1% (95% CI: 20.5-32.3) and it was reduced from 29.3% (95% CI: 21.7-37.8) in the pre-intervention period to 21.5% (95% CI: 13.6-31.2) in the post-intervention period, with no statistical significance (p = 0.19). In the multivariate analysis, the NEOCOSUR score for risk of death at birth, use of postnatal corticosteroids, and the intervention period were independently associated with osteopenia. Being born after the intervention reduced the probability of alkaline phosphatase > 500 IU/L by 71%, regardless of the other variables included in the model. Conclusion. Calcium phosphate monitoring and early supplementation is a protective factor against the development of osteopenia in very low birth weight infants.

Introducción. Con el uso de la nutrición parenteral agresiva en recién nacidos de muy bajo peso, se detectaron alteraciones del metabolismo fosfocálcico. En 2016 se implementó una estrategia de prevención a través del monitoreo fosfocálcico y su suplementación temprana. El objetivo fue estudiar si esta estrategia disminuye la prevalencia de osteopenia e identificar factores de riesgo asociados. Población y métodos. Estudio cuasiexperimental que comparó la prevalencia de osteopenia entre dos grupos: uno después de implementar la estrategia de monitoreo y suplementación fosfocálcica (01/01/2017-31/12/2019), y otro previo a dicha intervención (01/01/2013-31/12/2015). Resultados. Se incluyeron 226 pacientes: 133 pertenecen al período preintervención y 93 al posintervención. La prevalencia de osteopenia global fue del 26,1 % (IC95% 20,5-32,3) y disminuyó del 29,3 % (IC95% 21,7-37,8) en el período preintervención al 21,5 % (IC95% 13,6-31,2) en el posintervención, sin significancia estadística (p = 0,19). En el análisis multivariado, el puntaje NEOCOSUR de riesgo de muerte al nacer, recibir corticoides posnatales y el período de intervención se asociaron de manera independiente a osteopenia. Haber nacido luego de la intervención disminuyó un 71 % la probabilidad de presentar fosfatasa alcalina >500 UI/L independientemente de las restantes variables incluidas en el modelo. Conclusión. La monitorización y suplementación fosfocálcica precoz constituye un factor protector para el desarrollo de osteopenia en recién nacidos con muy bajo peso al nacer.

Estrategias de mejora de calidad en lactancia en recién nacidos muy bajo peso: revisión del tema / Breastfeeding quality improvement strategies in very low birth weight newborns / Revisao das estratégias de melhoria da qualidade na amamentação de recém-nascidos de muito baixo peso

El abordaje nutricional en los recién nacidos de muy bajo peso al nacimiento constituye un desafío en la práctica clínica de los neonatólogos, y muchas veces se aborda fuera del período crítico. Existe evidencia contundente de que la optimización nutricional precoz impacta en forma directamente proporcional en la sobrevida y sobrevida sin morbilidades mayores para este grupo. La implementación de lactancia materna precoz en este contexto debe ser una prioridad del equipo asistencial, siendo la mejora de calidad una herramienta de demostrada utilidad para mejorar los resultados en términos de mortalidad y morbilidad neonatal.

The nutritional approach of the very low birth weight infant poses a great challenge to most neonatologists in their clinical practice, and it is frequently delayed until de newborn is in stable clinical conditions. Currently, scientific evidence supports that early nutritional optimization impacts directly on this group's survival and on their survival without major morbidities. Initiatives fostering early breastfeeding should be prioritized by the healthcare team. Quality improvement has shown to be a very useful resource to improve outcomes regarding neonatal mortality and morbidities.

A abordagem nutricional do recém-nascido de muito baixo peso representa um grande desafio para a maioria dos neonatologistas em sua prática clínica, sendo frequentemente postergada até que o recém-nascido esteja em condições clínicas estáveis. Atualmente, evidências científicas sustentam que a otimização nutricional precoce impacta diretamente na sobrevivência desse grupo e na sobrevivência sem maiores morbidades. Iniciativas de incentivo ao aleitamento materno precoce devem ser priorizadas pela equipe de saúde. A melhoria da qualidade tem se mostrado um recurso muito útil para melhorar os desfechos em relação à mortalidade e morbidades neonatais.

Neonatal Sequential Organ Failure Assessment as a late-onset sepsis mortality predictor in very low birth weight newborns: a Brazilian cohort study.

Death is a frequent occurrence in late-onset neonatal sepsis (LOS). We aimed to evaluate if the Neonatal Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (nSOFA) is associated with mortality due to LOS in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. This is a single-center Brazilian cohort study including VLBW infants admitted between 2006 and 2020 who were diagnosed with LOS caused by Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus sp or Gram-negative bacteria. The primary outcome was mortality associated with sepsis. Two groups of patients-survivors and non-survivors-were compared regarding descriptive maternal and neonatal variables and the nSOFA score, evaluated at nine moments, from 48 hours before the diagnosis of sepsis to 48 hours later (T-48, T-24, T-12, T-6, T0, T+6, T+12, T+24, T+48). Diagnostic accuracy was expressed as the area under the curve (AUC). Among the 1574 VLBW infants hospitalized in the period, 114 episodes of culture-confirmed LOS occurred. There were 21 sepsis-related deaths (18.4%), mostly from Gram-negative bacteria and Enterococcus sp. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups regarding maternal and neonatal variables. Median nSOFA was significantly higher in the non-survivor group at all time points (range 2 to 13 versus 1 to 3). In the logistic regression analysis, each increment of one point in the score significantly increases the risk of death in eight of the nine moments, but no difference was found in T-24. Time T-6 had the best accuracy (88.1%).   Conclusion: The nSOFA score was significantly associated with the risk of death from LOS in VLBW infants. What is Known: • The neonatal sepsis may result in organ dysfunction and death, and it is important to find indicators that could identify this clinical progression. • The nSOFA score was proposed in 2020 to predict mortality from LOS, but since it is recent and still in the research phase, further studies are important to improve it before being widely used in clinical practice. What is New: • We showed a significative association between higher nSOFA scores and mortality. Our results corroborate the validity and the importance of the nSOFA score and highlight its high NPV.

Comparison of growth curves in very low birth weight preterm infants after hospital discharge.

Monitoring preterm infants' growth is essential to ensure the best prognosis for their growth and development. We aimed to compare growth curves in very low birth weight preterm infants after hospital discharge. In this retrospective longitudinal study, 178 preterm infants' growth was assessed by z-scores for weight for age and length to age and compared between Fenton and Kim and Intergrowth-21st charts from hospital discharge until 50 weeks postnatal, and between Intergrowth-21st and WHO charts, 50 and 64 weeks postnatal. The Kappa test was used to evaluate the agreement of the number of cases classified above or below the -2 Z-score concerning weight-for-age and length-for-age indicators to each proposed curve. Our results found that the agreement between Fenton and Kim and Intergrowth-21st curves was almost perfect for most of the weeks investigated, except 35-38 (k = 0.79) and 47-50 (k = 0.61) weeks postnatal. When evaluating the agreement between WHO and Intergrowth-21st, it was substantial for most of the weeks investigated, except for 55-58 and 69-64 weeks postnatal, in which the agreement was almost perfect (k = 0.84; k = 0.81, respectively). Furthermore, we observed that Fenton and Kim curve identified 8.4% and WHO, 5.8% more cases of preterm infants below -2 z than Intergrowth-21st.Conclusion: Although the agreement of the curves was substantial to almost perfect, the Fenton and Kim and WHO curve seem to identify more cases of preterm infants compared to the Intergrowth-21st, a finding that deserves more in-depth investigation in clinical practice. What is Known: • The adequate interpretation of postnatal growth depends on the standard growth chart. • Studies comparing the classification of anthropometric indicators of preterm infants between growth curves consider only the period from birth to hospital discharge. What is New: • This is the first study that compares the classification of weight-for-age and length-for-age indicators of VLBW preterm infants between Intergrowth-21st and Fenton and Kim curves until 64 weeks postnatal. • Substantial to almost perfect agreement of length-for-age indicator was found between the two growth curves of preterm infants during outpatient follow-up.

Factors associated with extubation failure in very low birth weight infants: a cohort study in the northeast Brazil.

OBJECTIVES: Identifying and understanding the main risk factors associated with extubation failure of very low birthweight (VLBW) infants in different populations can subsequently help in establishing better criteria while taking decision of extubation. The aim of the study was to identify factors associated with extubation failure in VLBW infants. METHODS: A cohort study of VLBW infants who underwent their first extubation between April 2018 and December 2019 in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Alagoas, Brazil, were included in this study. Extubation failure was defined as reintubation within seven days of extubation. Relative risks of predictive variables different between the extubation success group (ES) and extubation failure group (EF) were estimated with a robust Poisson regression model. RESULTS: Out of the 112 infants included, 26 (23%) cases exhibited extubation failure. Extremely low birth weight (RR 2.55, 95% CI 1.07, 6.06), mechanical ventilation duration for first extubation greater than seven days (RR 2.66, 95% CI 1.10, 6.45), vaginal delivery (RR 2.07, 95% CI 1.03, 4.18) and maternal chorioamnionitis (RR 4.89, 95% CI 1.26-18.98) remained independently associated with extubation failure. EF had a significant greater need for respiratory support, longer oxygen therapy duration, more bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and longer length of hospital stay, even when adjusted for confounding variables. CONCLUSIONS: Extremely low birth weight infants needing mechanical ventilation, wherein the duration for first extubation was longer than seven days, with vaginal delivery and maternal chorioamnionitis failed more frequently at the first attempt of extubation. And this failure increased the risk of BPD and the length of hospital stay.

The unfinished work of neonatal very low birthweight infants quality improvement: Improving outcomes at a continental level in South America.

Neonatal mortality rate varies between 4.2 and 18.6 per thousand by country in South America. There is little information regarding the outcomes of very low birth weight infants in the region and mortality rates are extremely variable ranging from 6% to over 50%. This group may represent up to 50-70% of the neonatal mortality and approximately 25-30% of infant mortality. Some initiatives, like the NEOCOSUR Network, have systematically collected and analyzed epidemiological information on VLBW infants' outcomes in the region. Over a 16-year period, survival without major morbidity improved from 37 to 44%. However, mortality has remained almost unchanged at approximately 27%, despite an increase in the implementation of the best available evidence in perinatal practices over time. Implementing quality improvement initiatives in the continent is particularly challenging but represents a great opportunity considering that there is a wide margin for progress in both care and outcomes.

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.

Impacto del volumen de sangre extraído por flebotomía sobre el requerimiento transfusional en prematuros menores de 1500 g. Estudio cuasiexperimental / Impact of the volume of blood collected by phlebotomy on transfusion requirements in preterm infants with birth weight of less than 1500 g. A quasi-experimental study

Introducción. La anemia es una complicación para los recién nacidos de muy bajo peso al nacer, y los exámenes de laboratorio son un factor de riesgo preponderante. Más del 50 % recibe, al menos, una transfusión de glóbulos rojos. Estas se han asociado a mayor riesgo de infecciones, hemorragia intracraneal, enterocolitis necrotizante y displasia broncopulmonar. En 2012, se implementó, en el Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, una estrategia de menor volumen de extracción de sangre por flebotomía. El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar su asociación con el número detransfusiones.Métodos. Estudio cuasiexperimental del tipo antes/después. Se comparó el número de transfusiones entre dos grupos de prematuros de muy bajo peso con diferente volumen de extracción. Se evaluó la correlación entre el volumen extraído y el número de transfusiones estimando el coeficiente de Spearman. Para ajustar por confundidores, se realizó un modelo de regresión logística.Resultados. Se incluyeron en el estudio 178 pacientes con edad gestacional media de 29,4 semanas (desvío estándar: 2,7) y peso al nacer de 1145 gramos (875-1345). El perfil de la serie roja inicial fue similar entre ambos grupos. El número de transfusiones (p = 0,017) y el volumen transfundido (p = 0,048) disminuyeron significativamente. El coeficiente de correlación resultó de 0,83. En el análisis multivariado, volumen de extracción y peso al nacer se asociaron a un requerimiento mayor de 3 transfusiones.Conclusión. Un menor volumen de extracción de sangre en prematuros de muy bajo peso está asociado de manera independiente a menor requerimiento transfusional.

Introduction. Anemia is a complication in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants, and lab tests are a predominant risk factor. At least one red blood cell transfusion is given in more than 50 % of cases. Transfusions are associated with a higher risk for infections, intracranial hemorrhage, necrotizing enterocolitis, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. In 2012, Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires implemented a strategy to collect a lower blood volume by phlebotomy. The objective of this study was to assess its association with the number of transfusions.Methods. Before-and-after, quasi-experimental study. The number of transfusions was compared between two groups of VLBW preterm infants with different blood collection volumes. The correlation between the collection volume and the number of transfusions was assessed estimating Spearman's coefficient. A logistic regression model was used to adjust for confounders.Results. The study included 178 patients with a mean gestational age of 29.4 weeks (standard deviation: 2.7) and a birth weight of 1145 g (875-1345). The baseline red series profile was similar between both groups. The number of transfusions (p = 0.017) and the transfusion volume (p = 0.048) decreased significantly. The correlation coefficient was 0.83. In the multivariate analysis, collection volume and birth weight were associated with a requirement of more than three transfusions.Conclusion. A lower blood collection volume in VLBW preterm infants is independently associated with fewer transfusion requirements.

Impact of the volume of blood collected by phlebotomy on transfusion requirements in preterm infants with birth weight of less than 1500 g. A quasi-experimental study. / Impacto del volumen de sangre extraído por flebotomía sobre el requerimiento transfusional en prematuros menores de 1500 g. Estudio cuasiexperimental.

INTRODUCTION: Anemia is a complication in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants, and lab tests are a predominant risk factor. At least one red blood cell transfusion is given in more than 50 % of cases. Transfusions are associated with a higher risk for infections, intracranial hemorrhage, necrotizing enterocolitis, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. In 2012, Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires implemented a strategy to collect a lower blood volume by phlebotomy. The objective of this study was to assess its association with the number of transfusions. METHODS: Before-and-after, quasi-experimental study. The number of transfusions was compared between two groups of VLBW preterm infants with different blood collection volumes. The correlation between the collection volume and the number of transfusions was assessed estimating Spearman's coefficient. A logistic regression model was used to adjust for confounders. RESULTS: The study included 178 patients with a mean gestational age of 29.4 weeks (standard deviation: 2.7) and a birth weight of 1145 g (875-1345). The baseline red series profile was similar between both groups. The number of transfusions (p = 0.017) and the transfusion volume (p = 0.048) decreased significantly. The correlation coefficient was 0.83. In the multivariate analysis, collection volume and birth weight were associated with a requirement of more than three transfusions. CONCLUSION: A lower blood collection volume in VLBW preterm infants is independently associated with fewer transfusion requirements.

Introducción. La anemia es una complicación para los recién nacidos de muy bajo peso al nacer, y los exámenes de laboratorio son un factor de riesgo preponderante. Más del 50 % recibe, al menos, una transfusión de glóbulos rojos. Estas se han asociado a mayor riesgo de infecciones, hemorragia intracraneal, enterocolitis necrotizante y displasia broncopulmonar. En 2012, se implementó, en el Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, una estrategia de menor volumen de extracción de sangre por flebotomía. El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar su asociación con el número de transfusiones. Métodos. Estudio cuasiexperimental del tipo antes/después. Se comparó el número de transfusiones entre dos grupos de prematuros de muy bajo peso con diferente volumen de extracción. Se evaluó la correlación entre el volumen extraído y el número de transfusiones estimando el coeficiente de Spearman. Para ajustar por confundidores, se realizó un modelo de regresión logística. Resultados. Se incluyeron en el estudio 178 pacientes con edad gestacional media de 29,4 semanas (desvío estándar: 2,7) y peso al nacer de 1145 gramos (875-1345). El perfil de la serie roja inicial fue similar entre ambos grupos. El número de transfusiones (p = 0,017) y el volumen transfundido (p = 0,048) disminuyeron significativamente. El coeficiente de correlación resultó de 0,83. En el análisis multivariado, volumen de extracción y peso al nacer se asociaron a un requerimiento mayor de 3 transfusiones. Conclusión. Un menor volumen de extracción de sangre en prematuros de muy bajo peso está asociado de manera independiente a menor requerimiento transfusional.

Variations in the number of births by day of the week, and morbidity and mortality in very-low-birth-weight infants / Variações no número de partos por dia da semana e morbidez e mortalidade em neonatos com muito baixo peso ao nascer

Abstract Objective: To know the distribution of births of very low birth weight infants by day of the week, and whether this distribution affects the morbidity and mortality in this group of patients. Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of data collected prospectively in the Spanish SEN1500 network (2002-2011). Outborn infants, patients with major congenital anomalies, and those who died in the delivery room were excluded. Births were grouped into "weekdays" and "weekends." A multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the independent effect of the birth moment on outcomes, and Cox regression for survival. Results: Out of a total of 27,205 very low birth weight infants born at and/or admitted to the participating centers, 22,961 (84.4%) met inclusion criteria. A reduction of 24% in the number of births was observed during the "weekends" compared with "weekdays". In the raw analysis, patients born on weekends exhibited higher morbidity and mortality (mortality rate: 14.2% vs. 16.5%, p < 0.001), but differences were no longer significant after adjusting for confounding factors. Conclusions: The present results suggest that current care practices reduce the proportion of births during the weekends and tend to cluster some high-risk births during this period, increasing crude morbidity and mortality. However, after adjusting for confounding factors, the differences disappear, suggesting that overall care coverage in these centers is appropriate.

Resumo Objetivo: Conhecer a distribuição dos partos de neonatos com muito baixo peso ao nascer durante a semana e se essa distribuição afeta a morbidez e a mortalidade nesse grupo de pacientes. Método: Esta é uma análise retrospectiva de dados coletados prospectivamente na rede espanhola SEN1500 (2002-2011). Foram excluídos neonatos nascidos em outro local, pacientes com grandes anomalias congênitas e pacientes falecidos na sala de parto. Os partos foram agrupados em "Dias úteis" e "Final de semana". Foi realizada uma análise de regressão logística multivariada para avaliar o efeito independente do parto sobre os resultados e uma regressão de Cox para avaliar a sobrevida. Resultados: Do total de 27.205 neonatos com muito baixo peso ao nascer nascidos e/ou internados nos centros participantes, 22.961 (84,4%) atenderam aos critérios de inclusão. Houve uma redução de 24% no número de partos no "Final de semana" em comparação com os "Dias úteis". Na análise bruta, os pacientes nascidos em finais de semana apresentaram maior morbidez e mortalidade (Taxa de mortalidade: 14,2% em comparação a 16,5%, p < 0,001), porém as diferenças não eram mais significativas após o ajuste aos fatores de confusão. Conclusões: Nossos resultados sugerem que as práticas atuais de atendimento reduzem a proporção de partos em finais de semana e tendem a agrupar alguns partos de alto risco nesse período, aumentando a morbidez e mortalidade brutas. Contudo, após o ajuste aos fatores de risco, as diferenças desaparecem, sugerindo que a cobertura de atendimento geral em nossos centros é adequada.

Variations in the number of births by day of the week, and morbidity and mortality in very-low-birth-weight infants.

OBJECTIVE: To know the distribution of births of very low birth weight infants by day of the week, and whether this distribution affects the morbidity and mortality in this group of patients. METHODS: This was a retrospective analysis of data collected prospectively in the Spanish SEN1500 network (2002-2011). Outborn infants, patients with major congenital anomalies, and those who died in the delivery room were excluded. Births were grouped into "weekdays" and "weekends." A multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the independent effect of the birth moment on outcomes, and Cox regression for survival. RESULTS: Out of a total of 27,205 very low birth weight infants born at and/or admitted to the participating centers, 22,961 (84.4%) met inclusion criteria. A reduction of 24% in the number of births was observed during the "weekends" compared with "weekdays". In the raw analysis, patients born on weekends exhibited higher morbidity and mortality (mortality rate: 14.2% vs. 16.5%, p<0.001), but differences were no longer significant after adjusting for confounding factors. CONCLUSIONS: The present results suggest that current care practices reduce the proportion of births during the weekends and tend to cluster some high-risk births during this period, increasing crude morbidity and mortality. However, after adjusting for confounding factors, the differences disappear, suggesting that overall care coverage in these centers is appropriate.

Effectiveness of a measure program to prevent admission hypothermia in very low-birth weight preterm infants / Efetividade de um programa de medidas para prevenção de hipotermia à admissãoem recém-nascidos pré-termo de muito baixo peso

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a thermoregulation bundle for preventing admission hypothermia in very low-birth weight preterm infants. Methods: Interventional study with retrospective evaluation of data undertaken in a tertiary neonatal unit including all very low-birth weight preterm infants (<1500 g) born at and admitted to the unit. Two periods were compared: before intervention (PI; 01/01/2012 to 02/28/2014_ and after intervention (PII; 04/01/2014 to 11/30/2016). The intervention started in March 2014. At PI procedures in the delivery room were: placement in a crib with a radiant heat source, doors always closed, polyethylene body plastic bag, double cap (plastic and cotton mesh), room temperature between 24 to 27 ºC and transport to neonatal unit in a pre-heated incubator (36-37.0 ºC). At PII, there was a reinforcement on not opening the plastic bag during the entire resuscitation process, even at an advanced stage, and the anthropometric measures and routine care were performed in the neonatal unit. Maternal, delivery, and neonatal variables were compared. Admission hypothermia was considered when admission axillary temperature was <36.0 ºC. Periodic results were shown to the team every six months and results were discussed. Results: The incidence of admission hypothermia was reduced significantly in PII (37.2 vs. 14.2%, p < 0.0001) and admission temperature medians were higher (36.1 vs. 36.5 ºC, p < 0.001). At PII, there was an increase in the number of infants transported with oxygen (49.5 vs. 75.5%, p < 0.0001). No differences were observed regarding birth weight and gestational age. Conclusion: There was a very important reduction in admission hypothermia incidence and a higher median admission temperature after continued protocol implementation.

Resumo Objetivo: Avaliar a efetividade de um programa de medidas para prevenção de hipotermia à admissão em recém-nascidos pré-termo de muito baixo peso. Métodos: Estudo de intervenção com coleta retrospectiva de dados em unidade neonatal terciária que incluiu todos os recém-nascidos pré-termo de muito baixo peso (< 1.500 g) nascidos e admitidos na unidade. Foram comparados dois períodos: antes da intervenção PI - 01/01/2012 a 28/02/2014 e depois da intervenção PII - 01/04/2014 a 30/11/2016. O mês de março de 2014 foi o início da intervenção. Em PI as medidas em sala de parto foram: recepção em berço de calor radiante, portas sempre fechadas, uso de saco plástico corporal, colocação de dupla touca (plástico e malha) na cabeça, temperatura ambiental entre 24-27 ºC e transporte em incubadora aquecida (36-37,0 ºC). No PII reforçou-se a não abertura do saco plástico durante toda reanimação mesmo que avançada e dados antropométricos e cuidados rotineiros realizados na unidade de internação. Variáveis maternas, de parto e neonatais foram comparadas entre os dois períodos. Hipotermia à admissão foi considerada quando temperatura axilar < 36,0 ºC. Resultados parciais foram apresentados e discutidos com a equipe semestralmente. Resultados: A incidência da Hipotermia à admissão diminuiu significativamente em PII (37,2 x14,2%, p < 0,0001) e a mediana de temperatura foi mais elevada (36,1x36,5º C, p < 0,001). Houve aumento significativo do número de crianças transportadas com oxigênio em PII (49,5 x 75,5%, p < 0,0001). Não houve diferenças para peso ao nascer e idade gestacional. Conclusão: Houve redução acentuada de Hipotermia à admissão e melhora na mediana da temperatura de admissão hospitalar em recém-nascidos pré-termo de muito baixo peso após implantação do protocolo.

Hipofosfemia en recién nacidos prematuros: un trastorno bimodal / Hypophosphatemia in preterm infants: a bimodal disorder

Las estrategias nutricionales para prematuros extremos con alto aporte de proteínas, han mostrado alteraciones metabólicas con hipofosfemia precoz, especialmente en el grupo de pacientes con restricción de crecimiento intrauterino (Rein). También se presenta hipofosfemia tardía, característica de la enfermedad metabólica ósea. En este artículo se revisan y actualizan conceptos en relación a la fisiopatología del metabolismo del fósforo en recién nacidos prematuros y uso de parenterales precoces en el contexto de enfermedad metabólica ósea. Los artículos fueron identificados en base de datos electrónicas como Pubmed y Rima. Fueron incluidos artículos en inglés y español. Fueron filtrados por título y resumen. La literatura actual propone diversas estrategias de nutrición precoz que permitan asegurar una adecuada cantidad de nutrientes para continuar con el crecimiento y desarrollo extrauterino. En pacientes con nutrición parenteral pero con diferentes aportes de fósforo, o relación calcio: fósforo inadecuada, a mayor contenido de aminoácidos, se presenta hipofosfemia, hipercalcemia, hipomagnesemia, hipokalemia e hiperglicemia, especialmente en casos de Rein. Estas alteraciones se asocian a prolongación de ventilación mecánica, mayor riesgo de displasia broncopulmonar y aumento de sepsis tardía. La hipofosfemia tardía, descrita ya hace muchos años, se presenta con normocalcemia y aumento de fosfatasas alcalinas, en la enfermedad metabólica ósea del prematuro, con alteración de la mineralización en distintos grados, secundaria a un inadecuado aporte de este mineral para los altos requerimientos de estos pacientes. Esta presentación de hipofosfemia precoz y tardía en el prematuro alerta sobre el control oportuno de fosfemia para ajustar el aporte nutricional. En el prematuro con nutrición parenteral precoz, el control en conjunto con la calcemia en la primera semana de vida, especialmente en Rein, permite tratar la hipofosfemia y prevenir sus complicaciones. En hipofosfemia tardía, el seguimiento semanal o quincenal desde las 4 semanas a los prematuros con riesgo, permite lograr un aporte óptimo de minerales.

New nutritional approaches to treat extreme premature babies have demonstrated relevant eviden ce of metabolic disturbances with early hypophosphatemia, especially in patients with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). They have shown late hypophosphatemia, as well, which is characteristic in the metabolic bone disease. A sytematic search of literature describing metabolic disturbances of phosphorus in preterm newborns is presented, related to the use of early parenteral nutrition and also in the context of metabolic bone disease. The articles were gathered from electronic data bases, such as PubMed and Rima. We include articles in english and spanish which were selected by titles and abstracts. Several strategies for early nutrition have been proposed in order to ensure an adequate amount of nutrients to accomplish the development and growth of preterm babies. Patients with parenteral nutrition support with different doses of phosphate, or inadequate calcium phosphate relation, or an increased amino acid content, may present hypophosphatemia, hypercalcemia, hy pomagnesemia, hypokalemia and hyperglycemia, all of these are additionally noteworthy in the pre sence of intrauterine growth restriction. Furthermore, said alterations are associated with prolonged mechanical ventilation, as well as bronchopulmonary dysplasia and increase in late onset sepsis. The late hypophosphatemia, described several years ago, arises as normocalcemia and as an increment of alkaline phosphatases in the metabolic bone disease in preterm babies, and also with an inadequate mineralization in different grades, secondary to an inadequate supply due to high nutritional requi rements in these patients. When early or late hypophosphatemia appears in preterm babies, it shall require timely control of phosphemia and will need to adjust the nutritional intake in order to correct it. In case of preterm babies with early parenteral nutrition it will also need a control of calcemia in the first week of birth, especially if those belonging to the IUGR group. Adjustment must be made along with metabolic follow up, as well. In late hypophosphatemia, a weekly or every two weeks fo llow up will be a must for all preterm babies in risk and they should be given supplements to get an optimum mineral supply.

Effectiveness of a measure program to prevent admission hypothermia in very low-birth weight preterm infants.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of a thermoregulation bundle for preventing admission hypothermia in very low-birth weight preterm infants. METHODS: Interventional study with retrospective evaluation of data undertaken in a tertiary neonatal unit including all very low-birth weight preterm infants (<1500g) born at and admitted to the unit. Two periods were compared: before intervention (PI; 01/01/2012 to 02/28/2014_ and after intervention (PII; 04/01/2014 to 11/30/2016). The intervention started in March 2014. At PI procedures in the delivery room were: placement in a crib with a radiant heat source, doors always closed, polyethylene body plastic bag, double cap (plastic and cotton mesh), room temperature between 24 to 27°C and transport to neonatal unit in a pre-heated incubator (36-37.0°C). At PII, there was a reinforcement on not opening the plastic bag during the entire resuscitation process, even at an advanced stage, and the anthropometric measures and routine care were performed in the neonatal unit. Maternal, delivery, and neonatal variables were compared. Admission hypothermia was considered when admission axillary temperature was <36.0°C. Periodic results were shown to the team every six months and results were discussed. RESULTS: The incidence of admission hypothermia was reduced significantly in PII (37.2 vs. 14.2%, p<0.0001) and admission temperature medians were higher (36.1 vs. 36.5°C, p<0.001). At PII, there was an increase in the number of infants transported with oxygen (49.5 vs. 75.5%, p<0.0001). No differences were observed regarding birth weight and gestational age. CONCLUSION: There was a very important reduction in admission hypothermia incidence and a higher median admission temperature after continued protocol implementation.

Chlorhexidine-Induced Chemical Burns in Very Low Birth Weight Infants.

Skin disinfection with chlorhexidine gluconate has not been standardized in preterm infants. We present 5 cases of chemical burns that occurred within the first 2 days of life in very low birth weight neonates after skin disinfection with aqueous and alcohol-based chlorhexidine solutions.

Intubación al nacer con tubo nasal corto en la transición a la vida extrauterina en recién nacidos de muy bajo peso / Intubation with a short nasal tube at birth during the transition to extrauterine life in very low birth weight infants

Describimos cambios recientes en el cuidado convencional al nacer en recién nacidos de muy bajo peso al nacer y la utilización de un tubo nasal corto para apoyar la ventilación inicial en este nuevo contexto. Reportamos nuestra experiencia con los tres primeros casos en que usamos esta técnica simple para administrar nCPAP a recién nacidos durante el alumbramiento mientras existe función placentaria antes de cortar el cordón.

We describe recent changes in conventional care at birth of very low birth weight infants and the use of a short nasal tube to support ventilation. We report our experience in the first three cases with this simple technique to deliver nCPAP to newborn infants during the third stage of labour, while the placenta is still functioning and before cutting the cord