BPD Management in the NICU: Recommendations from the Comprehensive Center for Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (205)

Abstract Text: Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is the most common pulmonary complication of prematurity, and the prevention of and the optimal treatment for BPD is a major concern for neonatal centers. Infants with BPD are at significantly increased risk for mortality and morbidity during their initial admission. Infants with BPD are more likely to have been diagnosed with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), sepsis, and/or intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH). Moreover, in addition to directly causing systemic and respiratory complications, the presence of BPD is strongly associated with poor neurodevelopmental outcomes. In 2003, the American Thoracic Society compiled a statement indicating the critical topics required for the care of a child with BPD, which included emphasis on nutritional and neurodevelopmental issues, home care concerns, and well-child care. Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, OH has developed the Comprehensive Center for Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (CCBPD) in an effort to address these needs and to provide a consistent caregiving model. The CCBPD fosters multidisciplinary collaboration, including the relationships between the health care team and families of infants with BPD.

Needs Assessment and Presentation Description: While recent advances in technology and care have led to improved survival of very low birthweight (VLBW) infants, they have not reduced the rates of BPD in survivors. Unfortunately, rates of prematurity are generally stable or increasing, particularly among minorities and those in low socioeconomic classes, and the absolute numbers of extremely premature infants surviving with BPD is likely increasing. The CCBPD provides recommendations for the care and treatment of infants with BPD in order to share this knowledge with other facilities in an effort to improve patient outcomes with consistent care.