Short-term outcomes and predictive factors of mortality among Very Low Birth Weight newborns (< 1500g): cross-sectional study in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Monastir, Tunisia.

Background Although the continuous progress of medical care, Very Low Birth Weight (VLBW) infants still have a high risk of mortality and encounter many morbidities, especially in developing countries. This study aimed to describe mortality and morbidity rates and to identify predictive factors of mortality among VLBW neonates. Methods We conducted an exhaustive cross-sectional study in the neonatal Intensive Care Unit of the Teaching Hospital of Monastir in Tunisia, from January 2019 to December 2022. All VLBW infants were included except those with lethal malformations or who died in the delivery room. Data were retrospectively collected and analyzed using SPSS version 21. Results A total of 253 neonates were included with a prevalence of 1.2% among live births. Median gestational age was 30 weeks [25–37 weeks], and median birth weight was 1280g [685-1490g]. Mortality rate was 13.8%, with a median age at death of 6 days. Main causes of death were nosocomial infections (38.2%), Respiratory Distress Syndrome (20.6%), and perinatal asphyxia (17.7%). Independent predictor factors of mortality included birth weight < 1000g, seizure, catheter-related complications, and mechanical ventilation. Non-invasive ventilation was protective. All neonates born more than 32 weeks survived. Conclusion Mortality among VLBW infants remains high. Preventing infections, reducing catheter complications, and promoting non-invasive ventilation are key strategies to improve outcomes.