[Liver rupture in preterm infants with a gestational age < 28 weeks].

BACKGROUND

Liver rupture is a rare complication in preterm infants and may be associated with birth trauma, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, laparotomy or coagulopathies. Only few patients are reported who have survived neonatal liver rupture. The aim of our study was to identify extremely preterm infants with liver rupture during a 6-year period.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

All preterm infants < 28 weeks gestational age admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit between 2001 and 2006 were studied retrospectively by chart review and screening of electronic files.

RESULTS

All 113 infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit during the study period were included. 4 infants with liver rupture were identified. In 3 cases the liver rupture was associated with cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Bleeding control was achieved only in 1 patient. All patients died, 3 because of haemorrhagic shock and 1 because of pneumopericardium.

CONCLUSIONS

Liver rupture should considered in neonates with otherwise unexplained hypovolaemia or anaemia. Neonates with a history of cardiopulmonary resuscitation should be evaluated carefully for possible liver injuries.