Abstract
Background: Approximately 10% of newborn infants require some resuscitation at birth and heart rate (HR) is considered the best indicator of effective resuscitation. Current HR assessment, using a stethoscope, is non-continuous, can interrupt resuscitation and is estimated incorrectly in 20-30% of cases. Pulse oximetry (PO) is not specifically designed for newborn HR monitoring and can be unreliable in low perfusion states. A simple forehead HR sensor would be advantageous allowing quick placement, continuous monitoring and improved reliability in low perfusion states.
Aims: Further development of a user friendly, quick and reliable forehead HR sensor for use during resuscitation of preterm infants in the delivery room.
Methods: Our novel forehead HR sensor (HeartLight), utilises patented reflectance photoplethysmography (PPG), to rapidly detect HR and can be sited in ∽5 seconds. We investigated acquisition time of HeartLight versus PO at birth in preterm infants in the delivery room (gestation 32+6weeks ±20days). Time to acquire a reliable signal was measured from the time each sensor was applied.
Results: Median time to obtain 1 and 2 seconds of PPG signal were calculated (table).
Conclusion: HeartLight rapidly detects a pulsatile signal in newborn preterm infants, more quickly than PO. HeartLight may offer a rapid, real time monitoring solution for HR during delivery room resuscitation and is undergoing further clinical trials.
Funding: MRC DPFS portfolio award
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Funding: MRC DPFS portfolio award
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Mann, C., Ward, C., Teoh, J. et al. Heartlight - Acquisition Times for a Novel Forehead Heart Rate Sensor in Delivery Room Resuscitation of Preterm Infants. Pediatr Res 70 (Suppl 5), 674 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1038/pr.2011.899
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/pr.2011.899