Graded oxygen saturation targets and retinopathy of prematurity in extremely preterm infants

Abstract

Background:We compared the incidence of severe retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and need for laser treatment before and after implementing graded pulse oximeter oxygen saturation (SpO2) targets in extremely preterm infants. Mortality and other secondary outcomes were compared.Methods:Before 2002, we used 90-94% as the SpO2 target in infants 240/7 -276/7 wk gestation and birth weight <1,000 g until 356/7 wk postmenstrual age (PMA). We implemented graded SpO2 targets based on vaso-obliterative and vaso-proliferative phases of ROP in 2002. Group 1 (1995-2001) before, and Group 2 (2003-2010) after implementation of graded SpO2 targets based on PMA (83-89% until 326/7 wk, 90-94% until 356/7 wk and >94% at ≥ 36 wk PMA).Results:There were 267 patients in Group 1 and 220 in Group 2. There was no significant difference in birth weight or gestational age. Severe ROP (adjusted OR: 0.18, 95% CI: 0.11, 0.30; P < 0.001) and laser surgery rates (adjusted OR: 0.31, 95% CI: 0.18, 0.52; P < 0.001) decreased significantly in Group 2. There was no difference in mortality (adjusted OR: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.37, 1.49; P = 0.40).Conclusion:In this retrospective cohort study, implementation of graded SpO2 targets decreased severe ROP and need for laser therapy, without increasing mortality.