63 Repeated Administration of Sucrose in Hospitalized Preterm Infants and Neurodevelopment at 18 Months

Abstract Background Preterm neonates, often hospitalized in the neonatal intensive care units (NICU), undergo multiple skin-breaking procedures. To minimize procedural pain, these infants frequently receive repeated administration of sucrose varying concentrations and doses. Repetitive pain has been associated with neurodevelopmental consequences, but long-term effects volume are unknown. Objectives Our goal was to examine association total over NICU stay neurodevelopment preterm neonates at 18 months corrected gestational age (CGA). Design/Methods A prospective longitudinal observational study conducted four level-III Canadian NICUs. Infants <32 weeks (GA) birth <10 days life enrollment were included. The minimally effective dose 24% (0.1 ml) administered prior all procedures during stay. Total for painful calculated full hospitalization. assessed CGA by a trained observer using Bayley Scales Infant Toddler Development, Third Edition (Bayley-III). standardized mean score each Bayley-III component reported out 100 (±15). Scores ≥85 considered within normal limits. between 18-month composite development scores, adjusting birthweight maternal use medication depression, GEE models accounting site. Results Of 168 enrolled study, 118 completed assessment (60% male, GA 28.3 [±2.2] weeks, weight [1092 (±354) grams]). received an average 5.92 (±5.59) ml hospitalization 58 (±70) scores limits; cognitive 91 (±17), language 86 (±18), motor 88 (±17). There no statistically significant (p=0.98), (p=0.68), (p=0.29) adjusted analyses. Conclusion do not generally indicate delay CGA. requires more research as infant matures, better understand impact on outcomes attention potential confounders. relationship combination other evidence-supported interventions (e.g., skin-to-skin care, breastfeeding) also further investigation.