Friday, January 16, 2009

Heart test aids newborn babies

"Routine screening of newborn babies for a life-threatening heart problem can save lives, a Swedish study has found. Researchers found checking blood oxygen levels increased detection of a congenital heart defect which affects up to two in a thousand babies. The British Medical Journal online study says just under a third currently leave hospital undiagnosed, leading to added complications and more deaths. UK experts are investigating if screening should be introduced. In affected babies, a blood vessel called the ductus arteriosus - which bypasses the baby's non-functioning lungs when in the uterus and normally closes off soon after birth - remains partly open" - BBC

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