Perinatal care at the threshold of viability. American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Fetus and Newborn. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Committee on Obstetric Practice

Abstract

The survival rate for infants at the threshold of viability has been improving. However, there are insufficient data regarding the cost(s) of initial and ongoing care of these infants and the long-term outcome of survivors. Furthermore, there has been little study of the impact of obstetric management on the survival rates of extremely low birth weight infants and on long-term morbidities. Continued research on these issues is imperative, and physicians need to remain informed of changing statistics.