A large, multi-center study conducted by researchers in California has found that deferred cord clamping (DCC) is associated with a modest but statistically significant increase in first-recorded weight among very preterm infants (<32 weeks’ gestation).
Study Overview
This retrospective cohort study analyzed real-world Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU) data collected between 2016 and 2023 across 138 hospitals. The study included infants born between 22+0 and 31+6 weeks’ gestation. Deferred cord clamping was defined as a delay in umbilical cord clamping of at least 30 seconds after birth.
To ensure accurate assessment of the association between DCC and infant weight, analyses adjusted for gestational age (modeled as a second-order polynomial) and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR).
Key Findings
- A total of 32,634 very preterm infants were included in the final analysis.
- Mean weight with DCC: 1,338 g (SD 404)
- Mean weight without DCC: 1,290 g (SD 431)
- After adjustment, DCC was associated with a 24 g higher first-recorded weight (95% CI: 18–29)
Clinical Implications
Among very preterm infants, deferring cord clamping for at least 30 seconds was associated with a measurable increase in first-recorded weight. While modest in absolute terms, this difference is clinically meaningful in a highly vulnerable population.
The findings are consistent with prior clinical trials demonstrating improved placental transfusion and increased circulating blood volume associated with deferred cord clamping.
Why This Matters to SurePulse
These research findings align closely with SurePulse’s vision of a world where baby-centered innovation transforms neonatal outcomes. As delivery room practices evolve to support interventions such as delayed cord clamping, there is an increasing need for monitoring solutions that function effectively during this critical window immediately after birth.
SurePulse is developing a wireless, multi-parameter monitoring device designed to provide clinicians with rapid and accurate vital signs information, even during delayed cord clamping. Innovations that enable safe implementation of evidence-based practices like DCC have the potential to further improve outcomes for very preterm infants.
