With improved survival of the ELBW (BW≤1000g, GA≤29wks) there is a need to learn more about these infant's health, growth and ND outcome. 121 ELBW born between Jan 1992 and Dec 1994, discharged from the NICU were enrolled for follow-up; 15 infants (12%) failed the appointments and 1 (0.8%) died (SIDS). According to protocol our study group (N=105) was monitored neurologically, developmentally, and for growth, health and ROP. At 6 mos. they were evaluated with the Gesell Schedule and at 1 yr with the Bayley Scale of Infant Development. All ages were corrected for prematurity. Although this is an ongoing project we are reporting our first year findings. The mean BW was 782g (sd 156, range 440-1000); 30% were SGA; mean GA was 27 wks (sd 2.1, range 22-33); 53% female; 86% Hispanic. For analysis the study infants were divided in three groups according to BW.

Results: Table In spite of improvement in Obstetrical and Neonatal care and early intervention programs the incredibly low birthweight infant (BW≤750g) continues to have higher morbidity. Results offer support for the importance of comprehensive follow-up care of these infants.

Table 1
Full size table