Prophylactic indomethacin for preterm infants: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: Rates of long term morbidity remain unacceptably high in infants surviving after preterm birth. Prophylactic indomethacin has been shown to effectively reduce the rate of intraventricular haemorrhage in this group but there is the potential for unwanted side effects because of reduced organ perfusion. Objective: To examine the effect of prophylactic indomethacin on mortality and short and long term morbidity of preterm infants. Data sources: Medline (1966-2002), the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register and abstracts of the Society for Pediatric Research and the European Society for Pediatric Research were searched independently by both authors. Review methods: Trials were included..