Hemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus profile in preterm neonates (26–34 weeks’ gestation) undergoing surfactant replacement therapy in India: a prospective observational study

Abstract

Abstract Surfactant administration significantly improves respiratory outcomes in preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). However, surfactant administration may lead to hemodynamic alterations, particularly in the heart, affecting the patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), the consequences of which are not fully understood. This prospective observational study took place in an Indian neonatal care unit from July 2019 to November 2020, enrolling preterm neonates (26–34 weeks’ gestation) with RDS needing non-invasive positive pressure ventilation. They were divided into two groups: those who received surfactant while on respiratory support and those who did not. All newborns in the study had an initial echocardiogram within 24 h to detect PDA flow. Subsequent echocardiograms were conducted between 48 and 72 h or earlier based on symptoms. Of 220 infants requiring respiratory support, 84 were enrolled, with 42 in each group. While demographic variables were similar, the surfactant group had a lower median gestational age (29.0 vs. 31.0 weeks). In the surfactant group, a significantly higher percentage of neonates had hemodynamically significant PDA (hsPDA) compared to the non-surfactant group (54.76% vs. 26.19%, P-value = .008). Multiple logistic regression found no significant association between gestation, birth weight, or shock and hsPDA occurrence. Pulmonary hemorrhage occurred more often in the surfactant group. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) > grade 2, and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) ≥ grade 2 did not differ significantly between the groups. Surfactant therapy via the less invasive surfactant administration technique was associated with a higher incidence of hsPDA. While surfactant is crucial for neonatal respiratory care, its potential hemodynamic effects, including hsPDA, should be considered.