ROLE OF MAGNESIUM SULFATE FOR FETAL NEUROPROTECTION IN WOMEN AT RISK OF PRETERM BIRTH

JPUMHS; 2023: 13:01, 124-128 http://doi.org/10.46536/jpumhs/2023/13.01.395

Abstract

Introduction: With a decrease in gestational age, the chance of cerebral palsy increases significantly and is primarily ascribed to preterm birth. Currently, infants delivered prior to 34 weeks of gestation account for 25% of all new instances of cerebral palsy. Objective: To evaluate the impact of MgSO4 administered to pregnant women at risk for premature delivery for fetal neuroprotection. Materials and Methods: From January 2020 to December 2022, this prospective observational research was carried out at obstetrics & gynecology department hayatabad medical complex peshawar. Total 519 preterm pregnant women between 28-36 weeks gestational age were enrolled. Out of 519, 199 premature laboring women received MgSO4 and were placed in group A, while the remaining 320 were placed in group B because they did not receive MgSO4. Women in group A got a 4g bolus dose of MgSO4 over 20–30 minutes, then 1g/hour. All pregnant women, whether carrying a single or multiple pregnencies, who were between 28-36 weeks gestational age. Results: Neonatal outcomes of groups include the following: Mechanical ventilation in group A was 45(22.6%) & 85(26.5%) in group B, Respiratory distress 83(41.7%) vs 191(59.7%), neonatal enterocolitis 11(5.5%) vs 9(2.8%),

intensive resuscitation 6(3%) vs 12(3.7%), neonatal seizures 7(3.5%) vs 11(3.4%), NICU admission required in group A was 85(42.7%) vs 183(57.1%) in group B, mortality in both groups was 2(1%) vs 4(1.2%). Conclusion: The development of cerebral palsy in preterm infants may be prevented by administering MgSO4 with a wide margin of safety. Even though MgSO4 has only moderate benefits, it is a secure, affordable drug, so the risk-benefit ratio favors using it.