The neonatal significance of selected perinatal events among infants of low birth weight. I. Overall results.

A large retrospective study was conducted on babies weighing less than 2,001 gm over a 3-year period. The second half of the study period featured an intensive approach to the perinatal care of babies weighing less than 800 gm in particular. The obstetric and neonatal factors resulting in neonatal morbidity and mortality are reviewed for the population in general, viewed by weight and gestational age as well as by factors of appropriate and inappropriate growth. Later reports will examine in greater detail the influence of specific maternal admitting diagnoses.