Delayed versus Early Umbilical Cord Clamping in Preterm Multiple Gestation: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of delayed cord clamping (DCC) on hematocrit at 6 hours and 6 weeks of age, hospital stay, and other clinical outcomes at discharge. Study Design: This randomized controlled trial was conducted in a tertiary care center in Western India. Preterm multiple gestations were randomized to DCC at 60 seconds of birth or early cord clamping (ECC) within 30 seconds of birth. The primary outcome was hematocrit at 6 hours of age. Results: < 0.001). Other secondary outcomes were similar between the two groups. Conclusion: DCC was feasible in preterm multiple gestation and resulted in improved hematocrit at 6 hours and 6 weeks of life. There was a nonsignificant trend toward higher peak bilirubin levels in infants who received DCC. This trial is registered with the Clinical Trials Registry of India (identifier: CTRI/2023/10/058944). Key Points: · DCC increased hematocrit at 6 hours and 6 weeks in preterm multiple gestation.. · DCC increased peak bilirubin levels and prolonged the duration of phototherapy.. · DCC is feasible in preterm multiple gestation..