European experts differ on neonatal intensive care

Experts from Germany and Switzerland clashed last week on whether or not babies born before the 25th week of pregnancy should be automatically considered for intensive care. The doctors were discussing the matter at an international symposium on neonatology in Heidelberg, Germany.

The guidelines of the German Society for Neonatal and Paediatric Intensive Care state that every preterm infant, regardless of immaturity, must be considered for treatment. The decision should be taken according to each baby's prognosis. Doctors should not refuse treatment …