What is persistent pulmonary hypertension?

In persistent pulmonary hypertension, also known as persistent fetal circulation, a newborn’s circulation reverts back to the circulation of a fetus, where much of the blood flow bypasses the lungs. It occurs most often in full-term babies after a difficult birth, or birth asphyxia.

Symptoms

• Baby appears ill at delivery or in first hours after birth
• Cyanosis, or blue coloring
• Rapid breathing and rapid heart rate
• Low blood oxygen levels

Diagnosis

Physical examination of the infant is sufficient for the health care provider to diagnose gastroschisis. The mother may have shown signs indicating excessive amniotic fluid, a condition called polyhydramnios. Prenatal ultrasonography often identifies gastroschisis.

Treatment

Treatments may include:

• Supplemental oxygen
• Placing an endotracheal tube into the baby's windpipe
• Mechanical breathing machine
• Medications to relax the baby's muscles so that he will better respond to the mechanical ventilator
• Inhalation of nitric oxide to help dilate the blood vessels in the lungs
• Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)