Abstract
Heat production in the neonate occurs predominantly in the head and the trunk. A part of the heat produced in the head and the trunk is transferred by the bloodstream to the limbs. We measured total heat production and heat loss using indirect calorimetry. Limb heat flow was calculated from total heat production and limb heat loss. Total limb blood flow (TLBF) was derived from limb heat flow, temperature difference between core and limb skin, and specific heat of blood. Birthweight and gestational age of the infants studied so far were 1.290±0.206 kg (mean±SD) and 28.3±1.0 wks respectively (n=5). Measurements were performed at low and high water vapour pressure P(H2O) in the incubator. Results:
It is concluded that limb blood flow increases with age and that thermoregulatory responses in very premature newborn infants include alterations in limb blood flow.
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Geerdink, J., Asselt, W., Simbruner, G. et al. 126 ESTIMATED TOTAL LIMB BLOOD FLOW IN VERY PREMATURE NEWBORN INFANTS. Pediatr Res 20, 1055 (1986). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198610000-00181
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198610000-00181
