Evaluation of Electrocardiographic Variations in Newborns in the Early Postnatal Period

Background: Few studies have reported electrocardiogram data collected during the neonatal period. The aim of this study was to evaluate electrocardiogram variations in neonates during the early postnatal period. Methods: Electrocardiogram samples taken during the first hour of life from newborns born at our hospital were analyzed in this prospective observational study. Demographic data and possible electrocardiogram changes were studied. The results were statistically analyzed. Results: A total of 260 patients were included during the study period. Among these, 50% were male (n=130), the mean gestational age was 38.1±1.4 weeks, and the mean birth weight was 3.2±1.4 kg. In the electrocardiograms obtained, low atrial rhythm was detected in 0.3% of the patients (n=1). Right axis deviation was observed in 1.5% of the patients (n=4), and left axis deviation was observed in 1.2% of the patients (n=3). An abnormal P-axis was found in one patient (0.3%), and an abnormal QRS-T angle was found in one patient (0.3%). According to the normogram of Davignon and colleagues, T-wave changes were significantly greater in lead V1 (p=0.02). No statistically significant differences were observed in the other parameters. Conclusion: Different electrocardiogram changes can be observed in the early neonatal period. Further studies are needed to clarify the interpretation of the electrocardiogram findings.