Blood Flow and Pancreatic Function in Preterm Babies
Author Information
Author(s): Nicholl Richard M, Deenmamode Jean M, Gamsu Harold R
Primary Institution: Kings College Hospital
Hypothesis
We investigated the relationship between superior mesenteric artery blood flow velocity and exocrine pancreatic function in very low birth weight babies.
Conclusion
Babies with previous in-utero blood flow redistribution may exhibit altered gut development and pancreatic function.
Supporting Evidence
- Growth restricted babies had significantly lower sma bfv values compared to appropriately grown preterm babies.
- Faecal chymotrypsin levels were lower in growth restricted babies but did not achieve statistical significance.
- Serum lipase levels were detectable in adult concentrations in both groups.
Takeaway
Some babies who didn't grow well in the womb might have problems with their tummy and pancreas after they are born.
Methodology
Doppler studies were performed on 9 growth-restricted and 18 appropriately grown preterm babies, measuring blood flow and pancreatic function markers.
Limitations
The study was not powered to detect differences in mortality between groups.
Participant Demographics
9 growth-restricted babies and 18 appropriately grown preterm babies.
Statistical Information
P-Value
< 0.001 for gestational age, 0.15 for birth weight, 0.008 for sma bfv, 0.11 for faecal chymotrypsin.
Confidence Interval
95% CI 2.4–12 for faecal chymotrypsin in growth-restricted babies.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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