Long-term sequelae of postnatal surfactant and corticosteroid therapies for BPD

Abstract

Objective: This retrospective analysis assessed the relationship between medical treatment (postnatal steroids, surfactant) received neonatally and outcomes at 3 and 8 years using a longitudinal sample of children with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD).Study Design: Four groups were formed retrospectively based on the type of neonatal medical treatment received: no drug intervention (n ¼ 37), surfactant only (n ¼ 29), postnatal steroids only (n ¼ 13) and combined surfactant and postnatal steroids (n ¼ 16). Groups were compared on neurological and medical outcomes.Result: Combined postnatal steroids and surfactant treatment was associated with more days on supplemental oxygen than no intervention or surfactant only. Surfactant replacement therapy alone was not associated with adverse consequences; however, postnatal steroid exposure appeared to be related. Conclusion:Although retrospective analyses make statements about causation impossible, the differential relationships of therapies with cognitive outcomes argues for careful monitoring of therapeutic agents with very low birth weight infants.

Early developmental support for preterm infants based on exploratory behaviors: A parallel randomized controlled study

“…Literature shows that BPD is a risk factor for adverse developmental outcomes (Short et al, 2007). We applied stratified randomization in the gestational age and mother education, but controlling all parameters is impossible.…”