1. Title: "Complications in Periviable Babies"
Subtitle: Understanding the Challenges and Factors Impacting Neonatal Health
2. Introduction
• Periviable Birth:
• Delivery at 20-25 weeks, at viability's edge.
• Challenges:
• Low Survival Odds:
• Occurs at 20-25 weeks, on the edge of viability.
• Premature infants face high mortality rates due to underdeveloped organs.
• Potential Complications:
• Health challenges include respiratory distress, developmental issues, and infection risks.
• Decisions:
• Complex Ethical Considerations:
• Difficult decisions for healthcare providers and parents.
• Balancing aggressive medical treatment against potential harm and long-term implications.
• Multidisciplinary Medical Approach:
• Collaboration among specialists (neonatologists, obstetricians).
• Informed decisions considering both maternal and neonatal health.
3. Causes of Periviable Deliveries
• Preterm Labor:
• Spontaneous onset of labor before the 37th week of pregnancy.
• Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes (PPROM):
• Rupture of the amniotic sac before 37 weeks, leading to premature labor.
• Placental Abruption:
• Premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, reducing oxygen
and nutrients to the fetus.
• Preeclampsia:
• High blood pressure and organ damage during pregnancy, sometimes
requiring early delivery to protect the mother and baby.
• Multiple Pregnancies:
• Higher risk of preterm birth in pregnancies with twins, triplets, or more.
4. Causes of Periviable Deliveries
• Uterine or Cervical Issues:
• Structural abnormalities or issues with the cervix that may lead to preterm labor.
• Infections:
• Infections in the amniotic fluid or reproductive organs that pose a risk to the health of the mother and
fetus.
• Maternal Health Conditions:
• Chronic conditions such as diabetes or hypertension may necessitate early delivery for the well-
being of both mother and baby.
• Fetal Growth Restriction:
• Impaired growth of the fetus, leading to concerns about its well-being and the need for early delivery.
• Fetal Anomalies:
• Identified abnormalities in the fetus that may require prompt medical attention and intervention.
Understanding the specific cause of a periviable delivery is crucial for tailoring medical care
and interventions to the unique circumstances of each case
5. Complications in Periviable Babies
Periviable babies, born at the edge of viability typically between 20
and 25 weeks of gestation, are at a higher risk of various
complications due to their premature birth. Some common
complications include:
• Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS):
• Underdeveloped lungs may lead to difficulty breathing, requiring respiratory
support.
• Intraventricular Hemorrhage (IVH):
• Bleeding within the brain's ventricles, often seen in very preterm infants.
• Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC):
• Inflammation and potential death of intestinal tissue, particularly common in
premature babies.
• Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA):
• Failure of a blood vessel (ductus arteriosus) to close, affecting blood flow in
the heart.
6. Complications in Periviable Babies
• Infections:
• Premature infants have a higher susceptibility to infections due to underdeveloped immune systems.
• Hypothermia:
• Difficulty regulating body temperature, which is crucial for premature infants.
• Jaundice:
• Buildup of bilirubin causing yellowing of the skin and eyes.
• Apnea of Prematurity:
• Brief pauses in breathing, common in preterm infants.
• Developmental Delays:
• Challenges in reaching developmental milestones due to premature birth.
• Vision and Hearing Impairments:
• Increased risk of long-term sensory issues.
• Cerebral Palsy:
• A group of disorders affecting movement and muscle coordination, more prevalent in preterm infants.
• Chronic Lung Disease (Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia):
• Prolonged need for respiratory support leading to lung damage.
• Feeding Difficulties:
• Premature babies may struggle with suckling and swallowing.
• The severity of complications can vary, and advances in neonatal care have improved outcomes for many periviable babies. However, the risk of long-term health
issues remains significant, requiring comprehensive and specialized medical management.
