Two treatment protocols for induction of preterm parturition in ewes—Evaluation of the effects on lung maturation and lamb survival

摘要: Abstract Lambs born prematurely are often unable to breathe due pulmonary immaturity and a lack of surfactant production. Attempts deliver live, moderately preterm lambs from critically ill ewes in late pregnancy therefore unsuccessful. The objective this study was evaluate the potential benefits repeated administration dexamethasone (DEXA) final-stage pregnant on subsequent perinatal lamb survival respiratory metabolic disorders associated with neonatal asphyxia. Two different treatment protocols were used induce parturition days 137 138 (full term 149 days). In group LTP (long-term protocol, n  = 12) low doses administered repeatedly starting 2 mg once daily 130–133, followed by single dose 4 mg day 134. For final induction 16 mg drug 135 then every 12 h until lambing. STP (short-term protocol) 15 received DEXA 135, same vitality laboratory parameters these dams compared delivered caesarean section (group CS) 147 or 148 gestation whose (  = 23) had injection 10 mg prior surgery, naturally 19 at full FT) after an average gestation. groups between 139 gestation, showing characteristics immaturity. Of 18 LTP, 16 survived without critical care (88.9%; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 67.2–96.9%). Group comprised 24 lambs, which (75%; CI = 55.1–88.0%). Out 39 CS, 37 (94.9%; (CI) = 83.1–98.6%), 27 28 FT, respectively (96.4%; CI = 82.3–99.4%). There no statistically significant difference rates four groups. all there increase pH, BE HCO 3− values within first 24 h post natum, decrease p CO 2(v) values. Compared previous studies indicated high mortality results indicate that exogenous has positive effect induced around 92% term.