Timing of insults causing abnormal outcome in preterm infants 1989-1992.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to clarify the influence of timing of brain insults causing abnormal outcome in preterm infants.

METHODS

One hundred and thirty-one preterm infants were examined. The timing of brain insult was estimated from EEG or clinical findings. Development was assessed until a corrected age of 48 months.

RESULTS

39% and 4% of infants, respectively, born before and after the 28-week time point subsequently died (P < 0.05). Abnormal development was observed in 16% of the first group and 13% of the second (N.S.). None of those born before 28 weeks showed intrauterine injuries while nine of the infants which were born after this time showed intrauterine injuries (P < 0.05). Fetal distress was noted in all infants suffering neonatal death born after 28 weeks.

CONCLUSION

Intrauterine brain insult was concluded to be the cause of neonatal death or abnormal development in many infants born after 28 weeks.