Objective This study aimed to determine clinical care practices for infants at risk for posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus (PHH) across level IV neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Study Design Cross-sectional survey that addressed center-specific surveillance, neurosurgical intervention, and follow-up practices within the Children's Hospitals Neonatal Consortium. Results We had a 59% (20/34 sites) response rate, with 10 sites having at least two participants. Respondents included neonatologists (53%) and neurosurgeons (35%). Most participants stated having a standard guideline for PHH (79%). Despite this, 42% of respondents perceive inconsistencies in management. Eight same-center pairs of neonatologists and neurosurgeons were used to determine response agreement. Half of these pairs disagreed on nearly all aspects of care. The greatest agreement pertained to a willingness to adopt a consensus-based protocol. Conclusion Practice variation in the management of infants at risk of PHH in level IV NICUs exists despite the perception that a common practice is available and used. Key Points Practice variation exists despite the perception that common practices are available/used for PHH. Our survey had same-center pairs of neonatologist and neurosurgeons to determine response agreement. The greatest agreement pertained to a willingness to adopt a consensus-based protocol.
