Where should extreme preterm babies be delivered? Crucial data from EPICure

摘要

In the UK all maternity services require to be able to provide expert resuscitation for emergency or unpredicted deliveries, including those of extreme preterm babies. After initial stabilisation there is then a choice between retaining the infant in the local neonatal unit or transferring to a larger perinatal centre. Where an extreme preterm baby is to be delivered electively, parents may require, with guidance, to decide whether to deliver close to home or to elect to travel further afield to a larger perinatal centre. It is the responsibility of involved professionals to help such parents make informed choices for their baby and family. Such guidance needs to be supported by the highest quality information.