The Definition of Hypotension in Very Low-birthweight Infants During the Immediate Neonatal Period

The term “hypotension” can be simply an abnormally low blood pressure (BP). However, questions remain as to the lower limit of normal and the level of BP that requires treatment, especially in newborns. Several approaches have been proposed for defining hypotension in the neonate, in whom a host of infant factors cause variations in BP. Natural compensatory mechanisms contribute to maintaining BP and subsequent tissue oxygen delivery. Therefore, an individualized approach to determining tissue perfusion and preventing tissue damage as well as acceptance of lower levels of BP may be appropriate.