Search

Background To define age-related changes in left (LV) and right (RV) ventricular function by using myocardial performance index (Tei Index) in preterm neonates. Materials and Methods 18 newborn infants were selected from preterm neonates with the gestational age of 24–32 weeks, mean birth weight 917.5 g (min. 520, max. 1920 g). The Tei Index is a Doppler-derived myocardial performance tool which can be used to evaluate the systolic and diastolic function. The first measurement was taken as soon as possible after birth, the second one was taken on day 3 of life, the third one at the 40 th wk post-conceptional age (pca). Results The higher Tei index was obtained in the RV (mean value - 0.39; SD +/–0.15) then the LV (mean value - 0.36; SD +/–0.10) in the first day of life. In the LV the Tei index was constant during the neonatal period and at 40 wks pca (from mean value 0.36-day 1, 0.35 day 3 and at 40 wks pca.), and we observed the conversion in the RV between the first and the third day of life and at 40 wks pca (mean value 0.39- day 1 to 0.30 -day 3 and to 0.28 at 40 wks pca). Conclusion The higher mean value of the Tei index in the RV might be reflecting the “persistent” fetal status of this ventricle in the first day of life. Although constant value of the Tei index in the LV reflect the degree of neonatal myocardial immaturity. Grant- MNiSW No. 407414336.