18 March 2019 Depending on gestational age, premature infants may be classified as: Pre-term threshold of viability -those born at 33 to 36 weeks and/or with birth weight between 1500 and 2500 grams Moderately premature - those born at 28 to 32 weeks and/or with birth weight between 1000 and 1500 grams; Extremely premature - those born earlier than 28 weeks and/or weighing less than 1000 grams at birth. These are the most frequent and most serious problems. Prematurity: what are the characteristics of a premature baby? Depending on its gestational age, which determines the degree of immaturity of its organs and systems, a premature baby will have: A different physical appearance; A greater or lesser risk of complications; Varying probabilities of survival; as such, they may need different kinds of care. It is a very important phase during which these babies, particularly those born before 35 weeks, require special attention and extraordinary care. Only then will they manage to attain biological maturity and survive outside the mother's uterus. What are the most common complications associated with prematurity? The lungs are the last organs to develop fully, and so respiratory problems are the most frequent complications in these babies. In these situations where the pulmonary system has not fully developed, oxygenation via ventilator or incubator will be necessary until the lungs become fully mature. Breastfeeding and swallowing reflexes have often not yet developed either. When this is the case, the baby will have to be fed via a gastric tube until the reflexes develop. Prematurity also manifests itself in immaturity of some of the brain centres with regard to the control of certain vital functions, such as controlling body temperature . As such, it is necessary to maintain the body temperature of these babies with the use of heaters or incubators - or the respiratory centre - as this deficiency can lead to periods of apnoea and, as a result, to bradycardia (slow heartbeat). This article was written with the support of physicians and other clinical professionals from the Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
