9 watt-LED (T8) Phototherapy for Neonatal Jaundice in Lerdsin Hospital

Abstract

Background : 18 watt fluorescent (T8) phototherapy is the standard treatment for neonatal jaundice. However, fluorescent is replaced by LED because of fluorescent use more energy than LED. We found that 9 watt LED (T8) phototherapy has enough light intensity for the treatment of neonatal jaundice.Objective : To study the effectiveness of 9 watt LED (T8) (8 light bulbs), developed in Lerdsin Hospital compare with 18 watt fluorescent (T8) (8 light bulbs) phototherapy in treating neonatal jaundice.Methods : This was randomized controlled trial study in 120 babies born during June to October 2019 with neonatal jaundice. The sample were divided into two groups by computer randomization and undergo the standardized physical examination and bilirubin’s level checkup. The light intensity was also measured at the beginning of treatment. Then, there was bilirubin testing every 24 hours until the end of treatment. Other routine nursing records were also done.Results : 9 watt LED (T8) phototherapy had statistical significantly higher light intensity than 18 watt fluorescence phototherapy. The rate of bilirubin level was decreased more in LED (T8) phototherapy compared to 18 watt fluorescent (T8) phototherapy at 24 and 48 hours of treatment. And, there was no change of patient’s temperature during treatment.Conclusions : The study of treating 60 patients diagnosis of neonatal jaundice with LED (T8) phototherapy found that the bilirubin level was more decreased than the treatment with the standard 18 watt-fluorescent (T8) phototherapy using in present.