NEW CLASSIFICATION OF INTRAVENTRICULAR HEMORRHAGE IN INFANTS LESS THAN 1750 GMS.

The purpose of this study was to assign a new classification for intraventricular hemorrhage in the premature infant, based on serial ultrasound findings. The mental and physical developmental outcome in these infants was compared as well. The patient population included infants with birth weights less than 1750 gms. 164 babies met the criteria for entrance into this study. 54 (33%) had normal studies throughout their course while 110 (67%) had ultrasonic evidence of intracranial hemorrhage. We looked at the 81 children on whom ultrasound and developmental data was available. The Bayley Scales of Infant development were used to assess the mental and motor milestones of these children. At 12 months, the children with intraventricular hemorrhages did not statistically differ in mental or motor development from those children who did not have any bleeds. However, those who have reached their 18 months birthday, and who had the most serious Grade 4 bleeds were significantly different in motor skills. This may be attributed in most cases to the development of a porencephalic cyst and subsequent cerebral palsy.