A Controlled Trial of High-Intensity Double-Surface Phototherapy on a Fluid Bed Versus Conventional Phototherapy in Neonatal Jaundice

Abstract

Objective. To evaluate a simple, relatively inexpensive method using the fluid bed to provide high-intensity double-surface (HIDS) phototherapy and to confirm that the method described is more effective than conventional phototherapy (CPT) in the treatment of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.

Design. Prospective controlled study.

Method. HIDS phototherapy (26 to 30 µW/cm² per nanometer) on the fluid bed (n = 22) versus conventional (7 to 10 µW/cm² per nanometer) phototherapy (n = 28) was used to treat neonates weighing more than 1500 g with hyperbilirubinemia.

Results. After 24 hours of therapy, the bilirubin in the group receiving HIDS phototherapy was significantly lower. The mean rate of fall of bilirubin was 5.34 µmol/L per hour in the group receiving HIDS phototherapy versus 0.7 µmol/L per hour in the group receiving CPT. HIDS phototherapy on a fluid bed was well tolerated.

Conclusion. HIDS phototherapy on the fluid bed is significantly more effective in reducing bilirubin than CPT. It can be easily and economically provided using equipment currently available in most neonatal units.