A technique that "washes out" the brains of severely ill premature babies may aid survival, a study suggests.
Bleeding in the brain is one of the most feared complications for the most premature babies as it can lead to brain damage or death.
The Bristol University study of 77 babies found the technique - involving draining the brain while introducing new fluid - could reduce the risk.
It is thought the technique could benefit about 100 babies a year.
The technique is carried out over a couple of days and requires close monitoring to ensure the pressure in the baby's brain does not rise too high, researchers say.
Experts have described the findings as encouraging.
It would be used only on the most premature babies with large haemorrhages, which cause the brain and head to expand excessively - a condition called hydrocephalus.
Standard treatment currently involves repeatedly inserting needles into the head or spine to remove the build up of fluid over a number of months before a shunt is inserted to drain fluid into the abdomen.
See entire article:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8552575.stm
No comments:
Post a Comment