Evaluation and outcome of very low birth weight neonates discharged from tertiary centre

Abstract

Background : In India, very-low-birth-weight (VLBW) babies (birth weight <1500 g) constitute only 3.4% of total live births; however, they are responsible for around one third (29.7%) of the neonatal deaths. This study was done with the objective to know maternal risk factors, neonatal complications and outcome of VLBW babies admitted in tertiary care centre of Bundelkhand region. Material and Methods: This prospective observational hospital based study included 100 neonates weighing between 400-1500 gm. Demographic and the relevant data about maternal risk factors and the neonatal complications seen in VLBW was collected. Newborns were followed up post discharge and examined regularly. ROP and OAE screening were also done. Results : The mean gestation age was 30.82±2.02 weeks with male : female ratio was 1.70:1. Anemia was the most common maternal complication in our study followed by preeclampsia. Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia was the most common neonatal complication. Among 100 VLBW cases 65 cases were discharged successfully, 7 cases (13.20%) had ROP and 9 (16.07%) cases had hearing loss with OAE on screening. Conclusion : Birth weight along with maternal risk factors and neonatal complications play an important role in the outcome of VLBW disease. A regular follow up is imperative for early recognition of retinopathy of prematurity and hearing loss with ensuring exclusive breast feed.