Survey of Quaternary Neonatal Management of Posthemorrhagic Hydrocephalus

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to determine clinical care practices for infants at risk for posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus (PHH) across level IV neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).

Study design: Cross-sectional survey that addressed center-specific surveillance, neurosurgical intervention, and follow-up practices within the Children's Hospitals Neonatal Consortium.

Results: We had a 59% (20/34 sites) response rate, with 10 sites having at least two participants. Respondents included neonatologists (53%) and neurosurgeons (35%). Most participants stated having a standard guideline for PHH (79%). Despite this, 42% of respondents perceive inconsistencies in management. Eight same-center pairs of neonatologists and neurosurgeons were used to determine response agreement. Half of these pairs disagreed on nearly all aspects of care. The greatest agreement pertained to a willingness to adopt a consensus-based protocol.

Conclusion: Practice variation in the management of infants at risk of PHH in level IV NICUs exists despite the perception that a common practice is available and used.

Key points: · Practice variation exists despite the perception that common practices are available/used for PHH.. · Our survey had same-center pairs of neonatologist and neurosurgeons to determine response agreement.. · The greatest agreement pertained to a willingness to adopt a consensus-based protocol..