A Retrospective Study of the Prevalence and Pattern of Intraventricular Haemorrhage Among Preterm Neonates in Makurdi, Nigeria

Background: Globally, an estimated 2.5 million newborns died in the first month of life in 2018, with preterm birth complications as the leading cause of death. Preterm neonates who survive are at greater risk of a range of short-term and long-term morbidities. Intraventricular haemorrhage (ICH) is an important cause of brain damage in premature newborns. Objective: To determine the prevalence, risk factors, pattern and outcomes of intraventricular haemorrhage amongst the preterm neonates in a tertiary facility. Methods: A six-year (Jan 2018-Dec 2023) retrospective study was carried out at the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) of the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi. The hospital records of all preterm neonates admitted into the unit during the period under review were retrieved and assessed using the study proforma. Results: A total of 121 preterm neonates were admitted with a male-to-female ratio of 1.1:1. The majority, (93; 76.9%) of the neonates had the first brain scan within the first seven days of life, while 10.7% had the scan between 8 and 14 days. Intraventricular haemorrhage was observed in 39 (32.2%), while 82 (67.8%) had normal brain scans. The severity pattern revealed Grade I, Grade II, and Grade III haemorrhages in 16.5%, 10.7%, and 5%, respectively. There were seven deaths accounting for 17.9% mortality. Conclusion: Intraventricular haemorrhage in preterm neonates is a silent cause of mortality among preterm neonates. Proactive measures are needed to prevent the condition and manage affected babies.