Echocardiographic evaluation of cardiovascular complications after birth asphyxia in term neonates

Objectives: After birth asphyxia, a variety of hemodynamic disorders may be noted in the neonatal intensive care unit; these require appropriate recognition and management. The present study was designed to demonstrate the prevalence of heart complications amongst asphyxiated newborns.

Methods: Through a cohort study, 29 asphyxiated term neonates were followed since birth until amelioration of pulmonary hypertension and compared with 31 well born neonates. Both groups were evaluated for their heart anatomy and hemodynamic with meticulous assessment through echocardiography. This study was conducted in Besat Medical Center since August 2010 until February 2012.

Results: Hemodynamic and anatomic disorders including myocardial dysfunction, pulmonary hypertension and patent arterial duct (PDA) were strongly associated with birth asphyxia (P< 0.05).

Conclusion: Birth asphyxia was associated with systolic and diastolic dysfunction and pulmonary hypertension which demands precise evaluation, early recognition and appropriate management.