Cardiovascular and respiratory status in mechanically ventilated asphyxiated term infants: comparison between hypothermic and control group
Lista, G.; Pogliani, L.; Fontana, P.; Castoldi, F.; Compagnoni, G.
Acta Bio-Medica Atenei Parmensis 75(2): 107-113
2004
ISSN/ISBN: 0392-4203 PMID: 15481699 Document Number: 575876
To evaluate cardiorespiratory changes in hypothermic asphyxiated ventilated infants compared with controls. Retrospective chart analysis with historical controls. Cardiorespiratory status of 10 asphyxiated newborns in hypothermia (H) (32 degrees-34 degrees C) (H group) was compared with that one of 11 asphyxiated newborns [control group, (C group)]. 3/10 patients in H group needed an increased mean tidal volume (from 5.8 to 8 ml/Kg) during hypothermia when temperature reached a value of 32 degrees C, to maintain adequate gas exchange. Length of mechanical ventilation was similar in the two groups (H=5.4+/-4.4 vs C=2.8+/-2.7 days, p=ns). Heart rate, similar at the baseline (H group: 129+/-11 beats/min; C group: 129+/-12 beats/min), dropped to an average of 102+/-10 beats/min (p<0.05) during cooling in H group, while it remained stable in C group. Mean arterial blood pressure, comparable at birth, increased by a median of 8 mmHg during hypothermia (p=ns). Hypothermia induces mild changes in cardiovascular status and in lung mechanics.