Considerable mortality and morbidity in neonates born below 500 gram

Aim Data evaluating mortality and morbidity in infants born ≤500g is scarce and shows wide variability. To support counselling and decision-making, we analysed neurodevelopmental outcome in all neonates ≤500g birth weight. Methods Retrospective analysis including preterm infants with a birth weight ≤500g and a gestational age >22 weeks born at a single tertiary perinatal centre between 2010 and 2017. Results Of 59 live births 88% received standard care. Birth weight ranged from 318 and 500g and gestational age from 23 and 29 weeks. 56% of neonates were born ≤3rd percentile and 42% of treated infants survived. Neurodevelopmental outcome was available in 91% of patients and was evaluated using Bayley Scales of Infant Development at two years. 50% showed a favourable mental development (normal or mild impairment), 75% a favourable motor development and 45% a favourable outcome in both outcome subcategories. When additionally considering visual and hearing disability and, or, cerebral palsy level ≥2 according to the Gross Motor Function Classification System 35% had a good neurodevelopmental outcome. Conclusion Survival rate was 37% for all live births and 42% for infants with standard care. More than one-third of survivors showed no significant neurodevelopmental impairment at two years.