DRIFT10 study shows positive long-term effects for newborns with intraventricular haemorrhages
Researchers from Bristol were able to demonstrate positive long-term effects of drainage, irrigation and fibrinolytic therapy (DRIFT) in neonates treated for posthemorrhagic ventricular dilatation (PHVD).
Especially the brain of very immature premature neonates is very sensitive. Premature born babies have a higher risk of developing cerebral haemorrhages. Up to 90% of all brain haemorrhages occur in the first 3 days of life. A main objective of research and practice in this medical field is to research and limit the long-term neurological consequences of PHVD.
In this regard, DRIFT is a promising procedure. It is used for ventricular irrigation and aims to remove bleeding products from the ventricle system. The simultaneos drainage and infusion leads to a “washing effect” of the ventricles.
Due to the 10 year follow-up period after the original RCT-study, long-term outcomes of DRIFT could be investigated – with high results! Neonates who were treated originally are far less affected by neurodisabilities afterwards (in school age). On average, significant higher IQ values could also be detected within the intervention group.
Joint Operations have set themselves the goal of establishing innovations and outstanding technologies for the benefit of patients in practice. Now, based on solid evidence of DRIFT therapy to reduce long-term neurodisability after PHVD, Möller Medical‘s LiquoGuard® catched the attention of the organization. With automatic and pressure-controlled CSF management using LiquoGuard® 7, drainage and infusion can be performed simultaneously. This makes the unique device ideal for the use of DRIFT.
For more information, please visit:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20211949
