Intraventricular streptokinase after intraventricular hemorrhage in newborn infants
Abstract Background Hydrocephalus following intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is still one of the most serious complications of premature birth. Ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgery cannot be carried out early and permanent dependence on a shunt is associated with several serious complications. Streptokinase could be useful in the treatment of post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus. This form of therapy is based on […]
Salicylate for the treatment of Kawasaki disease in children
Abstract Background Kawasaki disease is the most common cause of acquired heart disease in children in developed countries. The coronary arteries supplying the heart can be damaged in Kawasaki disease. The principal advantage of timely diagnosis is the potential to prevent this complication with early treatment. Salicylate (acetyl salicylate acid (ASA), aspirin) and intravenous immunoglobulin […]
Surgical treatment for the thumb-in-palm deformity in patients with cerebral palsy
Abstract Background Thumb-in-palm deformity in patients with spastic cerebral palsy is a deformity that impairs the ability to use the thumb and thus severely limits hand function. From the variety of operative procedures that have been described, it may be clear that there is no consensus on the surgical treatment of thumb-in-palm deformity. Objectives To […]
Fluid restriction for term infants with hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy following perinatal asphyxia
Abstract Background Current recommendations to control the consequences of hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy following perinatal asphyxia include the careful management of fluids, with avoidance of fluid overload and thus avoidance of cerebral oedema. Recommendations for fluid restriction in a neonate are based on the experience of restricting fluid intake in adults or older children. The extrapolation from […]
Anticonvulsants for neonates with seizures
Abstract Background Neonatal seizures are a common problem and most neonates with seizures are treated with anticonvulsants. There is wide variation in clinical practice in both diagnosis and treatment of such seizures and this reflects the lack of clear evidence of the relative benefit and harm of the anticonvulsants used. The routine use of anticonvulsants […]
Naloxone for preventing morbidity and mortality in newborn infants of greater than 34 weeks’ gestation with suspected perinatal asphyxia
Abstract Background Studies in animal models have suggested that naloxone, a specific opiate antagonist, may improve outcomes for newborn infants with perinatal asphyxia. Objectives To assess the effects of naloxone versus placebo or no drug, and of single versus multiple doses of naloxone, on mortality, long term neurological problems, severity of hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy, and frequency […]
Speech and language therapy interventions for children with primary speech and language delay or disorder
Abstract Background It is thought that approximately 6% of children have speech and language difficulties of which the majority will not have any other significant developmental difficulties. Whilst most children’s difficulties resolve, children whose difficulties persist into primary school may have long-term problems concerning literacy, socialisation, behaviour and school attainment. Objectives To examine the effectiveness […]
Dopamine for prevention of morbidity and mortality in term newborn infants with suspected perinatal asphyxia
Abstract Background Perinatal asphyxia remains an important condition with significant mortality and long-term morbidity. Multisystem involvement including hypotension and low cardiac output is common in infants with perinatal asphyxia. Dopamine is commonly used for infants with hypotension of any etiology, with the goal of improving cardiac output and preventing its detrimental consequences. Objectives To determine […]
Diuretic therapy for newborn infants with posthemorrhagic ventricular dilatation
Abstract Background Intraventricular hemorrhage remains a serious complication of premature birth and post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus still has no satisfactory treatment. Acetazolamide and furosemide, which both reduce the production of cerebrospinal fluid, have been suggested as non-invasive therapies to reduce hydrocephalus and the need for ventriculo-peritoneal (V-P) shunting. Objectives To determine the effect of acetazolamide and furosemide […]