Name of the Condition

• Preterm Newborn, Gestational Age 29 Completed Weeks
• Premature baby, Preterm infant

Summary

Preterm birth refers to an infant born before completing 37 weeks of gestation. A gestational age of 29 completed weeks categorizes the newborn as moderately preterm. These infants often require specialized medical care to support their underdeveloped organs.

Causes

Preterm birth can result from a variety of factors, including maternal health conditions (e.g., hypertension, diabetes), infections, multiple pregnancies, or complications with the placenta.

Risk Factors

• Previous preterm birth
• Maternal age (<17 years or >35 years)
• Smoking or substance abuse during pregnancy
• Certain infections and chronic medical conditions in the mother
• Inadequate prenatal care

Symptoms

• Small size and low birth weight
• Less fat under the skin, making them appear thin
• Thin, transparent, and shiny skin
• Breathing difficulties
• Immature organ function

Diagnosis

• Assessment of gestational age through last menstrual period and ultrasound
• Physical examination of the newborn for signs of prematurity

Treatment Options

• Neonatal intensive care (NICU) for respiratory support
• Intravenous fluids and nutrition
• Thermal regulation to maintain body temperature
• Close monitoring and care for feeding, infections, and breathing issues

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With advances in neonatal care, the prognosis is improving for moderately preterm infants. However, ongoing follow-up is essential to address developmental milestones and potential medical issues.

Complications

• Respiratory distress syndrome
• Intraventricular hemorrhage
• Infections
• Long-term developmental and cognitive issues

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Adequate prenatal care
• Avoidance of smoking and substance abuse
• Management of chronic health conditions during pregnancy
• Nutrition and lifestyle support aimed at extending pregnancy duration

When to Seek Professional Help

• Significant changes in fetal movements
• Signs of preterm labor such as regular contractions, water breaking, or changes in vaginal discharge

Additional Resources

• March of Dimes (marchofdimes.org)
• National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (nichd.nih.gov)
• Local support groups for parents of preterm infants

Tips for Medical Coders

• Verify gestational age through available medical records or direct consultation with healthcare providers involved in care.
• Ensure accurate documentation is present to support the specific ICD code P07.32 for preterm newborns at 29 completed weeks.
• Double-check for accompanying codes related to any complications or specific conditions affecting the newborn.