Background: Antenatal administration of magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) has shown potential neuroprotective effects in preterm infants, reducing the risk of cerebral palsy and improving developmental outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the neurodevelopmental outcomes of preterm infants exposed to antenatal MgSO4.
Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted from November 2016 to October 2017 in the Department of Pediatrics at Gouri Devi Institute of Medical Sciences, West Bengal. Pregnant women at risk of preterm delivery (<32 weeks) were recruited. Those receiving antenatal MgSO4 (as per standard protocol) formed the exposure group. Neurodevelopmental assessments of infants were performed at 6 and 12 months using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development-II.
Results: A total of 120 preterm infants were enrolled, 60 each in the MgSO4 and control groups. At 12 months, significantly higher mean Mental Development Index (MDI) (96.2 vs. 89.4, p=0.03) and Psychomotor Development Index (PDI) (94.7 vs. 87.3, p=0.04) were noted in the MgSO4 group. Incidence of cerebral palsy was lower in the MgSO4 group (5% vs. 13.3%).
Conclusion: Antenatal MgSO4 is associated with improved neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm infants, including reduced incidence of cerebral palsy. These findings support its continued use for neuroprotection in imminent preterm births.
International Journal of Clinical Obstetrics and Gynaecology
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