J Korean Med Sci.  2022 Jul;37(29):e229. 10.3346/jkms.2022.37.e229.

Serial Short-Term Outcomes of VeryLow-Birth-Weight Infants in the Korean Neonatal Network From 2013 to 2020

• Jeon GW
• Lee JH
• Oh M
• Chang YS

• KMID: 2532086
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3346/jkms.2022.37.e229

Abstract

Background
We aimed to determine the current survival rate and short-term outcomes of very-low-birth-weight infants (VLBWIs) in Korea, as well as whether the survival rate and short-term outcomes have improved over time since 2013, which was when the Korean Neonatal Network (KNN) was launched.
Methods
This study used data from the annual reports of the KNN from 2013 to 2020. A total of 16,351 VLBWIs born at gestational age (GA) ≥ 22 weeks between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2020, and who were registered in the KNN were enrolled. Serial outcomes were analyzed according to era (2013–14, 2015–16, 2017–18, and 2019–20).
Results
More mothers delivered by cesarean section, had diabetes or hypertension during their pregnancy, and received antenatal steroids when analyzed by era. Fewer infants were intubated at birth and had air leaks when analyzed by era. The overall survival rate of VLBWIs between 2013 and 2020 was 87%. The rate of respiratory distress syndrome was 77% and that of bronchopulmonary dysplasia was 32% between 2013 and 2020. The rates of intraventricular hemorrhage (grade ≥ 3), periventricular leukomalacia, and sepsis decreased over time. The survival rate of infants with a GA of 26 weeks has improved serially according to era.
Conclusion
Since the launch of the KNN in 2013, the survival rates of infants with GA 26 weeks and short-term outcomes have improved, which implies a quality improvement in antenatal and delivery room care. Further studies on the long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes of these KNN registrants are warranted.

Keyword

Infant; Very Low Birth Weight; Infant; Premature; Infant Mortality; Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia; Cerebral Intraventricular Hemorrhage; Leukomalacia; Periventricular

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