Haemodynamics in preterm babies with PDA: an observational study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Haemodynamic biomarkers in preterm infants with patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) (HAPI-PDA study): a pilot cohort study of the relationships between blood flow through a PDA and surrogate outcomes for brain injury
IRAS ID
127099
Contact name
Alex Astor
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Liverpool
Research summary
Before birth, the ductus arteriosus (DA) is a blood vessel which allows blood to by pass the lungs, which are collapsed and not in use during life inside the womb. After birth, the lungs expand to provide oxygen to the baby and the DA normally closes. However, the DA may stay open in many very premature babies, i.e. those born before 29 weeks’ gestation. When this happens, it is called a Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA). If there is a PDA, increased blood flow to the lungs may cause breathing problems. The PDA may also adversely affect the brain, gut and kidneys function, but this only affects some babies where the DA remains patent.
We do not know exactly why some babies are more likely to have problems as a result of a PDA than others, or the best way to treat them. The research question to be addressed is to determine whether PDA affects the blood flow to the brain and which premature babies with PDA are at increased risk of developing long term neurodevelopmental problems. This would give information about which babies would be most likely to benefit from treatment aimed at closing the PDA.
All babies born prematurely before 29 weeks may take part in this study. A doctor will do heart and head ultrasound scans to measure the PDA and assess any brain damage. Probes will be placed on the skin of baby’s head and chest to monitor brain and heart activity. Measurements will be made until the PDA closes: once daily for the first 3 days, once weekly until the PDA closes and then before discharge. These measurements are safe, painless and will not upset the baby. The results will be linked to the baby’s progress.
REC name
North West - Preston Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/NW/1274
Date of REC Opinion
8 Oct 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion