Hypothesis/Study question
In infants born at less than 29 weeks of estimated gestational age, what are the effects of dexamethasone use on cardiac structure/performance and lung water content?
Study objectives
To measure effects before and after dexamethasone administration on cardiac structure/performance will be evaluated by using the M-mode technique (Devereux method (25-27) and lung water content will be specifically determined by the degree of water retention in premature lungs assessed by lung ultrasound at the pre specified time points.
Methodology / Study design
Single center, prospective observational cohort study planning to enroll eligible patients over a period of 12 months
< 29 weeks of gestational age at birth admitted at the McGill University Children Hospital's neonatal intensive care unit
To be initiated on dexamethasone therapy for treatment of significant lung disease as per medical team decision.
Congenital heart disease (except: Atrial septum defect (ASD), Ventricular septum defect (VSD)
Major congenital anomalies/genetic disorder (Trisomy 13, 18, 21)
Congenital severe lung or airway malformation (Trachea-esophageal fistula, congenital pulmonary airway malformation, congenital diaphragmatic hernia)
Twin-twin transfusion syndrome