Fetal growth

Fetal growth

Fetal growth is associated with intense somatic and functional changes Growth = quantitative acquisition of body weight Development = qualitative changes associated with cell and tissue differentiation of individual organ systems and their subsequent functional maturing Insulin + IGF-1 (Insulin-like growth factor 1) = main growth factors during fetal development and early postnatal…

Birth injury

Birth injury

Birth injury is defined physical (mechanical) trauma of tissues and organs that is associated with birth (internal or external injury). Treatment is required for birth injury itself, as well as for the associated complications (perinatal asphyxia, hemorrhage and resultant anemia, hyperbilirubinemia, paresis, fractures). Risk Factors for Birth Injury Prematurity Instrumental birth (forceps,…

Perinatal asphyxia

Perinatal asphyxia

Perinatal asphyxia = antepartum or intrapartum hypoxia, hypercapnia and acidosis associated with organ dysfunction (predominantly ventilation, circulation and neurologic impairment) Ventilation changes Compensatory tachypnea => primary apnea => gasping => secondary apnea Gasping causes aspiration of amniotic fluid (possibly with meconium) Continued secretion (absence of reversal) through alveolar-capillary membrane => increased amount of fluid…