What is the study about?

In the UK, 1–2 in 100 babies are born very prematurely (before 32 weeks) and often need help with breathing at birth (resuscitation). 

Delayed (deferred) cord clamping - leaving the umbilical cord attached to the placenta for longer - can improve outcomes in stable premature babies by providing extra oxygen and nutrients. However, it is unclear if this also benefits babies who need resuscitation. Current UK practice is to clamp the cord within 30 - 60 seconds in these cases. 

This study aims to find the best timing for cord clamping in very premature babies requiring resuscitation. Hospitals across the UK are taking part. Hospitals will be randomised to either: 

• Resuscitation with the umbilical cord clamped at up to and including 60 seconds 

• Resuscitation with the umbilical cord intact for at least 3 minutes  

Hospitals are randomly assigned to one of the two approaches, and all eligible babies in the participating hospital will be resuscitated according to the approach allocated to their hospital. Around 2,422 babies will be included to determine which method leads to better outcomes. 

Who can take part in the study?

Babies born at less than 32 weeks’ gestation who require resuscitation at birth can take part in this study. 

What is being tested in the study?

We are testing whether resuscitation with the umbilical cord intact for at least 3 minutes leads to better survival and outcome for those babies. 

What is this being compared to?

We are comparing it to the standard hospital practice of resuscitation with the umbilical cord clamped at up to and including 60 seconds. 

What are we trying to find out?

We are trying to find out which approach leads to better survival without severe brain injury in those babies. 

How many patients do we need?

2422 babies are needed from 46 hospitals around the UK 

Funder

National Institute for Health and Care Research The Opticord trial - NIHR Funding and Awards

Click here to read OptiCord Trial Short Summary