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.

Antibiotics and beyond: Unraveling the dynamics of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in very preterm infants.

BACKGROUND: Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) remains a significant challenge in neonatal care. Prenatal inflammation and neonatal sepsis contribute to the multifactorial nature of BPD. A potential association between empirical antibiotic therapy and BPD risk has been proposed due to microbiota dysbiosis in very low birth weight premature infants. METHODS: A single centered retrospective cohort study of preterm infants (24-32 weeks gestation) from 2014 to 2021. The study compared groups that received empirical antibiotics in the first days of life and those that did not receive any antibiotic in the first days of life. The primary outcomes studied were BPD, death, and the combined outcome of BPD/death. Statistical analysis employed t-tests, Mann-Whitney U, Chi-square, and logistic regression. RESULTS: Of 454 preterm infants, 61.5% received antibiotics. This group had lower gestational age, birth weight, and Apgar scores. Antibiotic use was associated with higher incidence of BPD (35.5% vs. 10.3%), death (21.5% vs. 8.6%), and combined outcomes (54.5% vs. 18.3%). In multivariate analysis, antibiotic use independently associated with BPD (OR 2.58, p < 0.001) and combined outcome BPD/death (OR 2.06, p < 0.02). Antenatal corticosteroids provided protection against BPD, but not mortality. CONCLUSION: This study suggests an association between early empirical antibiotic use and BPD in preterm infants, emphasizing the need for judicious antibiotic practices in neonatal care.

Risk factors for acute kidney injury in very-low birth weight newborns: a systematic review with meta-analysis.

This study aims to analyze the main risk factors for acute kidney injury in the subgroup of very-low birth weight newborns, using the diagnosing criteria of the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) or the Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN). A systematic review of the literature was performed on the EMBASE® and PubMed® platforms. Studies that evaluated the risk factors for developing AKI in VLBW newborns were included. For the meta-analysis, we only included the risk factors that were associated with AKI in the univariate analysis of at least two studies. After an initial screening, abstract readings, and full-text readings, 10 articles were included in the systematic review and 9 in the meta-analysis. The incidence of AKI varied from 11.6 to 55.8%. All the studies have performed multivariate analysis, and the risk factors that appeared most were PDA and hemodynamic instability (use of inotropes or hypotension), sepsis, and invasive mechanical ventilation. After the meta-analysis, only cesarian delivery did not show an increased risk of AKI, all the other variables remained as important risk factors. Moreover, in our meta-analysis, we found a pooled increased risk of death in newborns with AKI almost 7 times.  Conclusion: AKI in VLBW has several risk factors and must be seen as a multifactorial disease. The most common risk factors were PDA, hemodynamic instability, sepsis, and invasive mechanical ventilation. What is known: • Acute kidney injury is associated with worst outcomes in all ages. It´s prevention can help diminish mortality. What is new: • A synthesis of the main risk factors associated with AKI in very low birth weight newborns.

Factors Associated with Low Volumes of Mother's Own Milk at Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Discharge of Very Low Birth Weight Infants-a Cohort Study.

Background: Mother's own milk (MOM) provides health benefits for infants with very low birth weight (VLBW). This study aimed to describe the incidence and factors associated with low volumes of MOM (<50% of total diet volume) at discharge for VLBW infants. Methods: A prospective cohort study of infants with VLBW and gestational age of <30 weeks, who survived to discharge and had no contraindication to MOM. We conducted bivariate analyses to investigate associations with the volume of MOM at discharge, using chi-square, t, and Mann-Whitney tests. All p-value analyses were two-tailed. The variables significantly associated with "low volumes of MOM" entered the multivariable analysis. Univariate and multivariate relative risk (confidence interval [CI] 95%) estimates were obtained from Poisson regression with a robust estimate of variance and controlled by the length of hospital stay. Results: Of 414 infants included and followed until discharge, 32.9% (n = 136) received less than 50% of the total daily volume of MOM. This outcome was associated with gestational age <28 weeks, lower birth weight, multiple births, developing bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and longer lengths of stay. After Poisson regression, low volumes of MOM at discharge were associated only with being born multiples (RR 2.01; CI 95% 1.53-2.64, p < 0.001) and with longer length of stay (RR 1.07; CI 95% 1.01-1.14, p = 0.01). Conclusions: Most VLBW infants were discharged home receiving predominantly MOM. Each neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) should acknowledge which clinical characteristics of mothers and VLBW infants are associated with difficulties maintaining MOM volumes until discharge.

Readmission After Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Discharge: The Importance of Social Drivers of Health.

OBJECTIVE: To determine associations between sociodemographic and medical factors and odds of readmission after discharge from the neonatal intensive care unit for infants with very low birth weight (<1500g). STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study using linked data from the California Perinatal Quality Care Collaborative, California Vital Statistics, and the Child Opportunity Index (COI) 2.0. Infants with very low birth weight born from 2009 through 2018 in California were considered. Odds ratios of readmission within 30 days of discharge adjusting for infant medical factors, maternal sociodemographic factors, and birth hospital were calculated via multivariable logistic regression and fixed-effect logistic regression models. RESULTS: A total of 42 411 infants met inclusion criteria. Also, 8.5% of all infants were readmitted within 30 days of discharge. In addition to traditional medical risk factors, two sociodemographic factors were significantly associated with increased odds of readmission in adjusted models: payor other than private insurance for delivery [aOR = 1.25 (95% CI 1.14-1.36)] and maternal education of less than high school degree [aOR = 1.19 (95% CI 1.06-1.33)]. Neighborhood Child Opportunity Index was not associated with odds of readmission. CONCLUSIONS: Sociodemographic factors, including lack of private insurance and lower maternal educational attainment, are significantly and independently associated with increased odds of readmission after neonatal intensive care unit discharge, in addition to traditional medical risk factors. Socioeconomic deprivation and health literacy may contribute to risk of readmission. Targeted discharge interventions focused on addressing social drivers of health warrant exploration.

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.

Duration of Simultaneous Exposure to High-Risk and Lower-Risk Nephrotoxic Antimicrobials in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Future Adolescent Kidney Health.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether greater duration of simultaneous exposure to antimicrobials with high nephrotoxicity risk combined with lower-risk antimicrobials (simultaneous exposure) in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is associated with worse later kidney health in adolescents born preterm with very low birth weight (VLBW). STUDY DESIGN: Prospective cohort study of participants born preterm with VLBW (<1500 g) as singletons between January 1, 1992, and June 30, 1996. We defined simultaneous exposure as a high-risk antimicrobial, such as vancomycin, administered with a lower-risk antimicrobial on the same date in the NICU. Outcomes were serum creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and first-morning urine albumin-creatinine ratio (ACR) at age 14 years. We fit multivariable linear regression models with days of simultaneous exposure and days of nonsimultaneous exposure as main effects, adjusting for gestational age, birth weight, and birth weight z-score. RESULTS: Of the 147 out of 177 participants who had exposure data, 97% received simultaneous antimicrobials for mean duration 7.2 days (SD 5.6). No participant had eGFR <90 ml/min/1.73 m2. The mean ACR was 15.2 mg/g (SD 38.7) and 7% had albuminuria (ACR >30 mg/g). Each day of simultaneous exposure was associated only with a 1.04-mg/g higher ACR (95% CI 1.01 to 1.06). CONCLUSIONS: Despite frequent simultaneous exposure to high-risk combined with lower-risk nephrotoxic antimicrobials in the NICU, there were no clinically relevant associations with worse kidney health identified in adolescence. Although future studies are needed, these findings may provide reassurance in a population thought to be at increased risk of chronic kidney disease.

Infección congénita por citomegalovirus en neonatos muy bajo peso / Congenital cytomegalovirus infection in very low birth weight neonates

Introducción: La infección congénita por el citomegalovirus en neonatos menores de 1500 gramos puede ser causa de morbilidad, mortalidad y discapacidad. Objetivo: Describir el comportamiento de la infección congénita por citomegalovirus en un servicio de neonatología. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y transversal con 61 neonatos. Se les realizó detección de citomegalovirus en la primera semana de vida en suero y orina, mediante reacción en cadena de la polimerasa, para determinar infección congénita. Se evaluaron variables perinatales en todos los neonatos, así como elementos clínicos y resultados de exámenes complementarios en los infectados. Resultados: La incidencia de infección congénita fue de un 10 por ciento (6/61). El 5 por ciento de los estudios fueron positivos (6/122). Ninguna muestra de orina resultó positiva (0/61) y en el 10 por ciento de las muestras de suero (6/61) se detectó el genoma del virus. Se encontró asociación entre valoración nutricional al nacer e infección por citomegalovirus (p< 0,05). El 83 por ciento de los neonatos infectados presentaron algún signo clínico y el síndrome de dificultad respiratoria fue el más frecuente (67 por ciento). En todos los neonatos con infección congénita el ultrasonido cerebral fue normal y en el 33 por ciento se detectó retinopatía de la prematuridad en el fondo de ojo. Conclusiones: La incidencia de infección congénita por citomegalovirus es alta en este grupo de riesgo. Los signos clínicos encontrados y los resultados del fondo de ojo en neonatos con infección congénita se relacionaron con la prematuridad y la valoración nutricional de hipotrófico se asoció con esta infección(AU)

Introduction: Congenital cytomegalovirus infection in neonates weighing less than 1500 grams can be a cause of morbidity, mortality, and disability. Objective: To describe the behavior of congenital cytomegalovirus infection in a neonatal service. Methods: A descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted with 61 neonates. Cytomegalovirus was detected in the first week of life in serum and urine, by polymerase chain reaction, to determine congenital infection. Perinatal variables were evaluated in all neonates, as well as clinical elements and results of complementary examinations in infected infants. Results: The incidence of congenital infection was 10 percent (6/61). 5 percent of the studies were positive (6/122). No urine samples were positive (0/61) and the virus genome was detected in 10 percent of serum samples (6/61). An association was found between nutritional assessment at birth and cytomegalovirus infection (p < 0.05). A total of 83 percent of infected neonates had some clinical sign, with respiratory distress syndrome being the most common (67 percent). In all neonates with congenital infection, brain ultrasound was normal, and retinopathy of prematurity was detected in 33 percent of patients with fundus retinopathy. Conclusions: The incidence of congenital cytomegalovirus infection is high in this risk group. The clinical signs found and the results of the fundus in neonates with congenital infection were related to prematurity and the nutritional assessment of hypotrophic was associated with this infection(AU)

Current Trends in Invasive Closure of Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Very Low Birth Weight Infants in United States Children's Hospitals, 2016-2021.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the current practices in invasive patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) closure (surgical ligation or transcatheter occlusion) in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants and changes in patient characteristics and outcomes from 2016 to 2021 among US children's hospitals. STUDY DESIGN: We evaluated a retrospective cohort of VLBW infants (birth weight 400-1499 g and gestational age 22-31 weeks) who had invasive PDA closure within 6 months of age from 2016 to 2021 in children's hospitals in the Pediatric Health Information System. Changes in patient characteristics and outcomes over time were evaluated using generalized linear models and generalized linear mixed models. RESULTS: 2418 VLBW infants (1182 surgical ligation; 1236 transcatheter occlusion) from 42 hospitals were included. The proportion of infants receiving transcatheter occlusion increased from 17.2% in 2016 to 84.4% in 2021 (P < .001). In 2021, 28/42 (67%) hospitals had performed transcatheter occlusion in > 80% of their VLBW infants needing invasive PDA closure, compared with only 2/42 (5%) in 2016. Although median postmenstrual age (PMA) at PDA closure did not change for the overall cohort, PMA at transcatheter occlusion decreased from 38 weeks in 2016 to 31 weeks by 2020, P < .001. Among those infants not intubated prior to PDA closure, extubation within 3 days postprocedure increased over time (yearly adjusted odds ratios of 1.26 [1.08-1.48]). Length of stay and mortality did not change over time. CONCLUSION: We report rapid adoption of transcatheter occlusion for PDA among VLBW infants in US children's hospitals over time. Transcatheter occlusions were performed at younger PMA over time.

Comparison between Wright and Shukla formulas: which is better for the placement of umbilical catheters in newborns ≤ 1500 g?

BACKGROUND: Intravascular venous (VUC) or arterial (AUC) umbilical catheter placement is the most frequent invasive procedure in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Either Wright's or Shukla's formula is used to introduce the catheters. However, Shukla's formula is associated with incorrect insertion, especially for newborns < 1500 g. This study aimed to determine by chest X-ray if Wright's formula is better than Shukla's formula for the correct placement of umbilical catheters in newborns ≤ 1500 g. METHODS: We included patients admitted to the NICU of a secondary-level hospital between 2021-2022 who received VUC or AUC through the Wright or Shukla formulas. RESULTS: A total of 129 newborns were included: 78 with VUC and 51 with AUC. In VUC, 50% with Wright and 36.8% with Shukla formulas had the correct location, (p = 0.24). In AUC, 56.6 % with Wright and 52.4% with Shukla formulas were placed correctly placed, (p = 0.76). VUC with weight < 1000 g were correctly placed in 36.4% with Wright and 33.3% with Shukla formulas (p = 0.58). VUC in newborns > 1000 g were correctly placed in 66.6% with Wright and 38.4% with Shukla formulas (p = 0.065). AUC in newborns < 1000 g were correctly placed in 45% using Wright and 42.9% Shukla formulas (p = 0.63). AUC in newborns > 1000 g were correctly placed in 80% using Wright and 57.1% Shukla formulas (p = 0.23). CONCLUSIONS: We found 13% more correctly placed VUC using Wright's formula. Moreover, Wright's formula was 29% above Shukla's VUC placement in neonates > 1000 g, although there was no significant difference due to the sample size.

INTRODUCCIÓN: La colocación de catéteres intravasculares venosos umbilicales (CVU) y arteriales (CAU) es el procedimiento invasivo más frecuente en la unidad de cuidados intensivos neonatales (UCIN). Para introducirlos se utilizan las fórmulas de Wright y de Shukla, aunque esta última podría estar asociada con una inserción incorrecta, especialmente en neonatos < 1500 g. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar mediante radiografía de tórax cuál fórmula es mejor para la correcta colocación de catéteres umbilicales en recién nacidos ≤ 1500 g. MÉTODOS: Se incluyeron los pacientes ingresados en la UCIN de un hospital de segundo nivel entre 2021-2022 que recibieron CVU o CAU mediante las fórmulas de Wrigth o Shukla. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron en total 129 recién nacidos: 78 CVU y 51 CAU. En CVU, Wright 50% y Shukla 36.8% tuvieron localización correcta, p = 0.24. En las CAU, Wright 56.6% y Shukla 52.4% tenían una ubicación correcta, p = 0.76. En CVU con peso < 1000 g, Wright 36.4% y Shukla 33.3% bien situados, p = 0.58. En CVU > 1000 g, Wright 66.6% y Shukla 38.4% bien situados, p = 0.065. En CAU < 1000 g, Wright 45% y Shukla 42.9%, p = 0.63. En CAU con peso > 1000 g, Wright 80% y Shukla 57.1%, p = 0.23. CONCLUSIONES: La colocación del CVU fue 13% mejor con la fórmula de Wright. La fórmula de Wright superó en el 29% la colocación del CVU en los neonatos > 1000 g en comparación con la de Shukla, aunque no hubo diferencia significativa debido al tamaño de la muestra.

Comparison between Wright and Shukla formulas: which is better for the placement of umbilical catheters in newborns ≤ 1500 g? / Comparación entre las fórmulas de Wright y de Shukla: ¿cuál es mejor para la colocación de catéteres umbilicales en recién nacidos ≤ 1500 g?

Abstract Background: Intravascular venous (VUC) or arterial (AUC) umbilical catheter placement is the most frequent invasive procedure in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Either Wright's or Shukla's formula is used to introduce the catheters. However, Shukla's formula is associated with incorrect insertion, especially for newborns < 1500 g. This study aimed to determine by chest X-ray if Wright's formula is better than Shukla's formula for the correct placement of umbilical catheters in newborns ≤ 1500 g. Methods: We included patients admitted to the NICU of a secondary-level hospital between 2021-2022 who received VUC or AUC through the Wright or Shukla formulas. Results: A total of 129 newborns were included: 78 with VUC and 51 with AUC. In VUC, 50% with Wright and 36.8% with Shukla formulas had the correct location, (p = 0.24). In AUC, 56.6 % with Wright and 52.4% with Shukla formulas were placed correctly placed, (p = 0.76). VUC with weight < 1000 g were correctly placed in 36.4% with Wright and 33.3% with Shukla formulas (p = 0.58). VUC in newborns > 1000 g were correctly placed in 66.6% with Wright and 38.4% with Shukla formulas (p = 0.065). AUC in newborns < 1000 g were correctly placed in 45% using Wright and 42.9% Shukla formulas (p = 0.63). AUC in newborns > 1000 g were correctly placed in 80% using Wright and 57.1% Shukla formulas (p = 0.23). Conclusions: We found 13% more correctly placed VUC using Wright's formula. Moreover, Wright's formula was 29% above Shukla's VUC placement in neonates > 1000 g, although there was no significant difference due to the sample size.

Resumen Introducción: La colocación de catéteres intravasculares venosos umbilicales (CVU) y arteriales (CAU) es el procedimiento invasivo más frecuente en la unidad de cuidados intensivos neonatales (UCIN). Para introducirlos se utilizan las fórmulas de Wright y de Shukla, aunque esta última podría estar asociada con una inserción incorrecta, especialmente en neonatos < 1500 g. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar mediante radiografía de tórax cuál fórmula es mejor para la correcta colocación de catéteres umbilicales en recién nacidos ≤ 1500 g. Métodos: Se incluyeron los pacientes ingresados en la UCIN de un hospital de segundo nivel entre 2021-2022 que recibieron CVU o CAU mediante las fórmulas de Wrigth o Shukla. Resultados: Se incluyeron en total 129 recién nacidos: 78 CVU y 51 CAU. En CVU, Wright 50% y Shukla 36.8% tuvieron localización correcta, p = 0.24. En las CAU, Wright 56.6% y Shukla 52.4% tenían una ubicación correcta, p = 0.76. En CVU con peso < 1000 g, Wright 36.4% y Shukla 33.3% bien situados, p = 0.58. En CVU > 1000 g, Wright 66.6% y Shukla 38.4% bien situados, p = 0.065. En CAU < 1000 g, Wright 45% y Shukla 42.9%, p = 0.63. En CAU con peso > 1000 g, Wright 80% y Shukla 57.1%, p = 0.23. Conclusiones: La colocación del CVU fue 13% mejor con la fórmula de Wright. La fórmula de Wright superó en el 29% la colocación del CVU en los neonatos > 1000 g en comparación con la de Shukla, aunque no hubo diferencia significativa debido al tamaño de la muestra.

Risk factors of acute kidney injury in very low birth weight infants in a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit

Abstract Objective Acute kidney injury (AKI) in the neonatal period is associated with worst outcomes as increased mortality and increased length of hospital stay. Very low birth weight (VLBW) newborns are at higher risk for developing several other conditions that are associated with worst outcomes. Understanding the risk factors for AKI may help to prevent this condition and improve neonatal care for this population. Methods This retrospective cohort study included 155 very low birth weight newborns admitted between 2015 and 2017. The authors compared the newborns who developed neonatal AKI with the non-AKI group and analyzed the main risk factors for developing AKI in the population. The authors also performed an analysis of the main outcomes defined as the duration of mechanical ventilation, length of stay, and death. Results From the cohort, a total of 61 (39.4%) patients had AKI. The main risk factors associated with Neonatal AKI were necrotizing enterocolitis (aOR 7.61 [1.69 - 34.37]; p = 0.008), neonatal sepsis (aOR 2.91 [1.17 - 7.24], p = 0.021), and hemodynamic instability (aOR 2.99 [1.35 - 6.64]; p = 0.007). Neonatal AKI was also associated with an increase in the duration of mechanical ventilation in 9.4 days (p = 0.026) and in an increase in mortality 4 times (p = 0.009), after adjusting for the other variables. Conclusion The present results highlight the importance of minimizing sepsis and necrotizing enterocolitis, as well as the importance of identifying hemodynamic instability, to prevent AKI and diminish the burden of morbimortality in VLBW newborns.

Growth phenotypes of very low birth weight infants for prediction of neonatal outcomes from a Brazilian cohort: comparison with INTERGROWTH

Abstract Objective: To assess the predictive value of selected growth phenotypes for neonatal morbidity and mortality in preterm infants < 30 weeks and to compare them with INTERGROWTH-21st (IG21). Methods: Retrospective analysis of data from the Brazilian Neonatal Research Network (BNRN) database for very low birth weight (VLBW) at 20 public tertiary-care university hospitals. Outcome: the composite neonatal morbidity and mortality (CNMM) consisted of in-hospital death, oxygen use at 36 weeks, intraventricular hemorrhage grade 3 or 4, and Bell stage 2 or 3 necrotizing enterocolitis. Selected growth phenotypes: small-for-gestational-age (SGA) defined as being < 3rd (SGA3) or 10th (SGA10) percentiles of BW, and large-for-gestational-age (LGA) as being > 97th percentile of BW. Stunting as being < 3rd percentile of the length and wasting as being < 3rd percentile of BMI. Single and multiple log-binomial regression models were fitted to estimate the relative risks of CNMM, comparing them to IG21. Results: 4,072 infants were included. The adjusted relative risks of CNMM associated with selected growth phenotypes were (BNRN/IG21): 1.45 (0.92-2.31)/1.60 (1.27-2.02) for SGA; 0.90 (0.55-1.47)/1.05 (0.55-1.99) for LGA; 1.65 (1.08-2.51)/1.58 (1.28-1.96) for stunting; and 1.48 (1.02-2.17) for wasting. Agreement between the two references was variable. The growth phenotypes had good specificity (>95%) and positive predictive value (70-90%), with poor sensitivity and low negative predictive value. Conclusion: The BNRN phenotypes at birth differed markedly from the IG21 standard and showed poor accuracy in predicting adverse neonatal outcomes.

Growth phenotypes of very low birth weight infants for prediction of neonatal outcomes from a Brazilian cohort: comparison with INTERGROWTH.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the predictive value of selected growth phenotypes for neonatal morbidity and mortality in preterm infants < 30 weeks and to compare them with INTERGROWTH-21st (IG21). METHOD: Retrospective analysis of data from the Brazilian Neonatal Research Network (BNRN) database for very low birth weight (VLBW) at 20 public tertiary-care university hospitals. OUTCOME: the composite neonatal morbidity and mortality (CNMM) consisted of in-hospital death, oxygen use at 36 weeks, intraventricular hemorrhage grade 3 or 4, and Bell stage 2 or 3 necrotizing enterocolitis. Selected growth phenotypes: small-for-gestational-age (SGA) defined as being < 3rd (SGA3) or 10th (SGA10) percentiles of BW, and large-for-gestational-age (LGA) as being > 97th percentile of BW. Stunting as being < 3rd percentile of the length and wasting as being < 3rd percentile of BMI. Single and multiple log-binomial regression models were fitted to estimate the relative risks of CNMM, comparing them to IG21. RESULTS: 4,072 infants were included. The adjusted relative risks of CNMM associated with selected growth phenotypes were (BNRN/IG21): 1.45 (0.92-2.31)/1.60 (1.27-2.02) for SGA; 0.90 (0.55-1.47)/1.05 (0.55-1.99) for LGA; 1.65 (1.08-2.51)/1.58 (1.28-1.96) for stunting; and 1.48 (1.02-2.17) for wasting. Agreement between the two references was variable. The growth phenotypes had good specificity (>95%) and positive predictive value (70-90%), with poor sensitivity and low negative predictive value. CONCLUSION: The BNRN phenotypes at birth differed markedly from the IG21 standard and showed poor accuracy in predicting adverse neonatal outcomes.

Risk factors of acute kidney injury in very low birth weight infants in a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit.

OBJECTIVE: Acute kidney injury (AKI) in the neonatal period is associated with worst outcomes as increased mortality and increased length of hospital stay. Very low birth weight (VLBW) newborns are at higher risk for developing several other conditions that are associated with worst outcomes. Understanding the risk factors for AKI may help to prevent this condition and improve neonatal care for this population. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included 155 very low birth weight newborns admitted between 2015 and 2017. The authors compared the newborns who developed neonatal AKI with the non-AKI group and analyzed the main risk factors for developing AKI in the population. The authors also performed an analysis of the main outcomes defined as the duration of mechanical ventilation, length of stay, and death. RESULTS: From the cohort, a total of 61 (39.4%) patients had AKI. The main risk factors associated with Neonatal AKI were necrotizing enterocolitis (aOR 7.61 [1.69 - 34.37]; p = 0.008), neonatal sepsis (aOR 2.91 [1.17 - 7.24], p = 0.021), and hemodynamic instability (aOR 2.99 [1.35 - 6.64]; p = 0.007). Neonatal AKI was also associated with an increase in the duration of mechanical ventilation in 9.4 days (p = 0.026) and in an increase in mortality 4 times (p = 0.009), after adjusting for the other variables. CONCLUSION: The present results highlight the importance of minimizing sepsis and necrotizing enterocolitis, as well as the importance of identifying hemodynamic instability, to prevent AKI and diminish the burden of morbimortality in VLBW newborns.

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.

Comparison of mortality and survival without major morbidities of very preterm infants with very low birth weight from Japan and Brazil / Comparação entre mortalidade e sobrevida sem morbidades importantes dos recém-nascidos prematuros de muito baixo peso entre o Japão e o Brasil

Abstract Objective: This study was carried out to understand the disparities in mortality and survival without major morbidities among very premature and very low birth weight infants between participating Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) from the Brazilian Network on Neonatal Research (RBPN) and the Neonatal Research Network of Japan (NRNJ). Methods: Secondary data analysis of surveys by the RBPN and NRNJ was performed. The surveys were conducted in 2014 and 2015 and included 187 NICUs. Primary outcome was mortality or survival without any major morbidity. Logistic regression analysis adjustment for confounding factors was used. Results: The study population consisted of 6,406 infants from the NRNJ and 2,319 from the RBPN. Controlling for various confounders, infants from RBPN had 9.06 times higher adjusted odds of mortality (95%CI 7.30-11.29), and lower odds of survival without major morbidities (AOR 0.36; 95%CI 0.32-0.41) compared with those from the NRNJ. Factors associated with higher odds of mortality among Brazilian NICUs included: Air Leak Syndrome (AOR 4.73; 95%CI 1.26-15.27), Necrotizing Enterocolitis (AOR 3.25; 95%CI 1.38-7.26), and Late Onset Sepsis (LOS) (AOR 4.86; 95%CI 2.25-10.97). Conclusions: Very premature and very low birth weight infants from Brazil had significantly higher odds for mortality and lower odds for survival without major morbidities in comparison to those from Japan. Additionally, we identified the factors that increased the odds of in-hospital neonatal death in Brazil, most of which was related to LOS.

RESUMO Objetivo: Este estudo foi realizado para compreender as disparidades na mortalidade e sobrevivência sem as principais morbidades entre recém-nascidos muito prematuros e de muito baixo peso entre Unidades de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal (UTINs) participantes da Rede Brasileira de Pesquisas Neonatais (RBPN) e Rede de Pesquisa Neonatal do Japão (NRNJ). Métodos: Foi realizada uma análise dos dados secundários dos bancos de dados da RBPN e da NRNJ. As pesquisas foram realizadas em 2014 e 2015 e incluíram 187 UTINs. O desfecho primário foi mortalidade ou sobrevida sem qualquer morbidade importante. Utilizou-se a análise de regressão logística com ajuste para os fatores de confusão. Resultados: A população do estudo foi composta por 6.406 recém-nascidos do NRNJ e 2.319 do RBPN. Ajustando para diversos fatores de confusão, os prematuros da RBPN tiveram 9,06 vezes maiores chances de mortalidade (IC95% 7,30-11,29) e menores chances de sobrevivência sem morbidades importantes (AOR 0,36; IC95% 0,32-0,41) em comparação com os da NRNJ. Fatores associados a maiores chances de mortalidade entre as UTINs brasileiras incluíram: síndrome de escape de ar (AOR 4,73; IC95% 1,26-15,27), enterocolite necrosante (AOR 3,25; IC95% 1,38-7,26) e sepse de início tardio (AOR 4,86; IC95% 2,25-10,97). Conclusões: Os recém-nascidos muito prematuros e de muito baixo peso do Brasil apresentaram chances significativamente maiores de mortalidade e menores chances de sobrevivência sem as principais morbidades em comparação aos do Japão. Além disso, identificamos os fatores que aumentam as chances da morte neonatal no Brasil, sendo a maioria relacionada à sepse tardia.

Influencia de la malnutrición fetal en el crecimiento y desarrollo craneofacial

Introducción: La malnutrición fetal incide de forma negativa en el crecimiento y la maduración, afectando las estructuras craneofaciales en el feto. Objetivo: Determinar los efectos de la malnutrición fetal por defecto en el crecimiento y desarrollo craneofacial en niños. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio analítico de casos y controles, en el área de salud José Martí del municipio Camagüey, desde enero de 2018 hasta diciembre de 2020. El universo estuvo constituido por niños de 6-11 años de edad, pertenecientes al área salud y la muestra quedó conformada por 40 niños, 20 en el grupo de estudio y 20 controles. El grupo de estudio se conformó por niños que presentaron bajo peso al nacer por defecto y tuvieron alteraciones en el crecimiento del complejo craneofacial y el grupo control por niños que no presentaron alteraciones en el crecimiento del complejo craneofacial y que al nacimiento se encontraban normopeso. A todos los niños se les efectuaron mediciones antropométricas craneofaciales. Resultados: La medida de la circunferencia cefálica al nacer en los controles masculinos superó en 0,78 cm al sexo femenino y entre los malnutridos por defecto, los masculinos lograron 1,57 cm más que los femeninos. En el diámetro bicigomático hubo una fuerte asociación estadística y el riesgo relativo indicó que la incidencia del bajo peso al nacer fue mayor que en los controles (p <0,05). Conclusiones: Los niños con bajo peso al nacer presentan menor crecimiento y desarrollo craneofacial según las variables antropométricas.

Introduction: Fetal malnutrition impacts in a negative way the growth and development, thus affecting the craniofacial structures of the fetus. Objective: To determine the effects of fetal malnutrition by defect on craniofacial growth and development in children. Methods: An analytical case and control study was carried out in Jose Martí health area of Camagüey, from January 2018 to December 2020. A sample of 40 was selected from the totality of the children between 6 and 11 years old who belong to the referred health area, to be divided into 20 cases and the same number in the control group. The study group was composed of those low birth weight who present craniofacial abnormalities while control group included the children without craniofacial abnormalities and normal weight at birth. Anthropometric craniofacial measurements were performed on all the sample. Results: The head circumference at birth in male children of control group was 0.78 cm higher than that on female sex. Among those low birth weight, male children exhibited 1.57 cm higher than females. Regarding the bizygomatic diameter there was a strong statistic association and the relative risk indicated a higher incidence on the study group compared to the control group (p <0.05). Conclusions: Low birth weight children show lower craniofacial growth and development, with higher impact on females according to anthropometric variables.

Evaluation of the efficacy of systemic inflammatory indices in determining mortality in very low birth weight infants

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: In our study, we aimed to investigate whether systemic inflammatory indices could be an indicator of mortality in very low birth weight (<1,500 g) preterm infants. METHODS: Very low birth weight preterm infants were included in our study, and patient data were recorded retrospectively. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio, systemic immune-inflammation index, pan-immune-inflammation value, and systemic inflammation response index were calculated and recorded. The survivors and infants who died were compared for systemic inflammatory indices. RESULTS: A total of 1,243 very low birth weight infants were included in the study. Of the patients, 1,034 survived and 209 died. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, pan-immune-inflammation value, systemic immune-inflammation index, and systemic inflammation response index were found to be statistically significantly lower in the mortality group than those in the survivor group (p=0.039, p=0.001, p<0.001, p<0.001, p<0.001, and p=0.002, respectively). According to the receiver operating curve analysis, systemic immune-inflammation index with the highest area under the curve (0.844) was found to be the most effective systemic inflammatory indices in predicting mortality with a cutoff level of ≤28.87 (p=0.0001). Multiple regression analysis showed that a lower level of systemic immune-inflammation index (≤28.87) was independently associated with mortality (OR: 1.677, 95%CI 1.061-2.685, p=0.001). CONCLUSION: We have shown that low systemic immune-inflammation index value in very low birth weight preterm infants may be a novel systemic inflammatory index that can be used to predict mortality.