LASER-DOPPLER-FLOWMETRY IN PRETERM NEWBORNS DURING APNEIC EVENTS

Materials and methods. We have studied with Laser-Doppler-Flowmetry (L DF) Skin Blood Flow Perfusion (SBFP) during apneic events in 15 preter m newborns (mean GA 32.4 w; mean B.W. 1620). Eighty-four apneic episod es were analyzed and the results were gathered into two groups. Group 1 with SBFP belonging to preterms aged up to 5 days and Group 2 with S BFP records of some older newborns (from 5th to 10th day of life). At first a decrease of LDF was often observed during apneic events. Resul ts. A statistically significant difference between the two groups was noted considering the SBFP percentage reduction, the hematocrit and th e time of appearance of the skin blood flow decrease. We also studied the mean of all apneic SBFP reductions in each of those newborns (11/1 4) who had apneic events in both periods, observing a remarkable incre ase in mean SBFP reduction when the newborns were older than five days . Conclusions. These differences can be caused by theologic factors su ch as high hematocrit, less pronounced red cell deformability and a so rt of cold vasoparalysis more evident in the first days of life. We th ink laser-Doppler-flowmetry be suggested when the newborn is able to b etter contrast the negative effects of apnea, for example centralizing the circle in favour of vital organs.