Efficacy of Intravenous Magnesium Sulphate in Neonates Suffering from Birth Asphyxia in a resource limited Country

Abstract

Abstract:

OBJECTIVE: To determine the efficacy of magnesium sulphate in reducing short-term morbidity and mortality among neonates suffering from birth asphyxia.

Study Design:  Randomized Control trial.

Place and Period of Study: Neonatology Unit of Allama Iqbal Memorial Teaching Hospital, Sialkot from November 2022 to July 2023.

Methodology:   Neonates with perinatal asphyxia, meeting the inclusion criteria were enrolled in Study (total of 128 with 64 in each Group). Asphyxia was classified according to criteria laid by Sarnat. After taking informed consent case group received Magnesium sulphate at the dose of 250mg/kg at 6 hour, 24 hour and at 48 hour of life. Rest of the management was similar for both groups. Data was collected on predesigned Performa. Distribution of perinatal factors and neonatal baseline characteristics were noted. Data was analyzed by using SPSS version 27, Chi-square test applied with P-value <0.05 taken significant.

Results:  This study showed statistically significant difference (p-value<0.05) in short term outcomes in the form of decrease frequency and early control of seizures along with shorter duration of hospital stay. However, the difference in establishment of sucking reflex and neurological status at discharge was insignificant (p-value >0.05).

Conclusion: Magnesium sulphate is an effective drug for reducing the short term morbidities in asphyxia especially in resource limited institutes.

Keywords: Birth asphyxia, Magnesium sulphate, Morbidity, Mortality, Neonate, Outcome, Resource limited country, Term