Vol. 6, Issue 2, Part A (2024)

Background: Birth asphyxia is a critical cause of cerebral injury in the neonatal period, leading to high neonatal mortality and morbidity in developing countries. Despite advancements in monitoring technology, obstetric care, and understanding of fetal and neonatal pathologies, birth asphyxia remains a serious condition with significant consequences. Survivors of birth asphyxia often face long-term issues such as cerebral palsy, mental retardation, and sensory and learning disabilities. 
Aim: To predict the outcome of patients with birth asphyxia using the Sarnat and Sarnat staging system. 
Method: This observational cross-sectional study included 270 newborn infants (150 males and 120 females) admitted to the Neonatal Care Unit (NCU) at Tikrit Teaching Hospital between March 1, 2022, and July 31, 2022. The infants were categorized based on risk factors associated with birth asphyxia, and their outcomes were assessed using the Apgar score and Sarnat staging. 
Results: Out of the total live births at Tikrit Teaching Hospital, 60 newborns had Apgar scores <7 at five minutes and no congenital abnormalities, indicating birth asphyxia. The frequency of birth asphyxia was 22.2%. Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) occurred in 21 (35%) of the asphyxiated infants, with higher incidence in those with lower Apgar scores. Significant correlations were found between birth asphyxia and maternal factors such as delivery mode, parity, antenatal care, pregnancy-induced hypertension, oligohydramnios, and breech presentation. Thirteen infants (21.6%) died during the hospital stay, with deaths significantly associated with severe HIE. 
Conclusion: The study concludes that severe asphyxia requires timely intervention, as indicated by the majority of stage 3 HIE cases admitted for less than 24 hours. Early recognition of high-risk pregnancies and increased awareness at the community level are crucial for prevention. The Apgar score and Sarnat staging system are effective predictors of outcomes in birth asphyxia.