Outcomes of Neonates with a 10-min Apgar Score of Zero: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> The Apgar score is a standardized method of assessing the primary adaptation and clinical status of a neonate after birth. Our objective was to systematically review and meta-analyze the survival and the survival without moderate-to-severe neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI) of neonates with a 10-min Apgar score of zero. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> Six electronic databases were searched for reports published until November 2021 of neonates with a 10-min Apgar score of zero. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale for cohort studies and the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for case series/reports. Meta-analyses of the proportion of outcomes were conducted using a random-effects model for studies published after year 2000 and reporting &#x3e;5 neonates. Meta-regression using the median year of the study period and subgroup analyses by treatment with therapeutic hypothermia and by gestational age were conducted. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Twenty-eight studies of 820 neonates with moderate risk of bias were included. Survival was 40% (95% confidence interval 30–50%, 16 studies, 646 neonates, <i>I</i>² = 83%), and it increased by 2.3% per year (95% CI 1.3–3.2%, <i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.001). Survival without moderate-to-severe NDI was 19% (95% confidence interval 11–27%, 13 studies, 211 neonates, <i>I</i>² = 62%). Survival was higher for neonates who received therapeutic hypothermia and for those with a gestational age ≥32 weeks compared to &#x3c;32 weeks. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> Approximately 2 in 5 neonates with a 10-min Apgar score of zero survived, and 1 in 5 survive without moderate-to-severe NDI survived. Survival has improved over the years, especially since the era of therapeutic hypothermia.