In a world-first study, neonatologist Martin Kluckow hopes to dramatically reduce damage to the heart and lungs in preterm infants.

Despite improved survival rates, some of the smallest babies face a significant chance of disability. Based at the Newborn Care Centre at Royal North Shore Hospital, the study is looking at heart function in these fragile infants. Researchers are collaborating with Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (Sydney) and King Edward Memorial Hospital (Perth).

Neonatologist Martin Kluckow is conducting a series of ongoing trials to investigate the best way to manage a heart complication called patent ductus arteriosus, which can cause lung damage and brain bleeding in pre-term infants. In the past four years the DETECT (Ductal Echocardiographic Targeting and Early Closure Trial) has enrolled over 150 babies and interim analysis of the results have found that this valuable study should continue.

A new trial commencing this year is the PDA (Paracetamol Duct Action) trial, which is looking at the possible role the simple medication paracetamol may play in the closure of the ductus. Both these trials focus on extremely premature babies born more than 10 weeks early and rely entirely on a high-tech colour doppler echocardiographic scanner that the Foundation donated to the Newborn Care Centre. This ultrasound machine has also been able to contribute to better outcomes for very sick babies, both full term and premature, by diagnosing problems with their cardio-respiratory adaptation to life outside the womb.

Project title: Cardiac function in premature infants

Investigator: Associate Professor Martin Kluckow

Funded since: 1997 through recurring funding from the Mill House Foundation