Frequency Of Complications In meconium Aspiration Syndrome In Hospitalized Babies

Abstract

Objective: To assess the frequency of complications in neonates with the diagnosis of
meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS).
Methods: A Neonates presented with respiratory distress along with meconium staining of vocal
cords and body on 1st day of life was admitted in Neonatology Ward of Services Hospital.
Neonates with dysmorphic features, congenital abnormalities of heart & lungs and those having
risk factors for sepsis were excluded from the study. A predesigned proforma was used to record
clinical data on presentation. This included necessary information like gestational age, weight,
gender, signs of post term baby and mode of delivery. The proforma was updated on daily basis to
make note of any complications arising during the course of hospital stay till outcome (discharge,
leave against medical advice or death).Arterial blood gases (ABGs) were done daily to look for
persistent hypoxia and Echocardiography was performed when ABGs and clinical examination
suggested development of persistent pulmonary hypertension of newborn (PPHN). Chest x-ray
was done at the time of admission and repeated if clinical findings were suggestive of
pneumothorax. Other investigations like blood culture were sent when there was clinical
suspicion of sepsis. The data was subsequently computed and analyzed using SPSS (Statistical
Package for the Social Sciences) version 10 by the authors.
Results: 175 babies with meconium aspiration were included in the study. Complications like
pneumothorax was observed in 28babies (16%),persistent pulmonary hypertension of
newborn(PPHN) in 35(20%), respiratory failure in 21 (12%) and sepsis in 27 patients(15.4%). 45
patients died (25.7%), 90 were discharged home(51.4%) and 40 were referred to other hospitals
(22.8%).
It was observed that commonest risk factorfor MAS was post-maturity, found in 40% with poor
APGAR score in 35.4%.There was no significant difference in morbidity between males and
females.
Conclusions: It was observed that meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) is a leading cause of
neonatal morbidity and it can be prevented by giving appropriate peri-natal care to high risk
pregnancies, vigilance and timely intervention in delivery room