Pulmonary Vascular Disease and Cardiac Performance in Extreme Preterm Infants

This study is examining pulmonary vascular disease and heart function in extremely premature babies born before 29 weeks of pregnancy. Being born that early means the lungs and heart are not fully developed, and some of these babies develop high blood pressure in their lung blood vessels (pulmonary hypertension) that can cause long-term health problems. Researchers are using echocardiography and other tests in the NICU and at follow-up clinic visits to better understand and predict these complications. You may be eligible if: - Your infant was born at less than 29 weeks of gestational age - Your baby was admitted to the NICU, or is being followed up in the MCH clinic after a NICU admission for extreme prematurity You may NOT be eligible if: - Your infant has a significant congenital heart defect (conditions beyond common minor ones like small septal defects or PDA) - Your infant has a severe congenital lung or airway malformation - Your infant has a known genetic disorder such as Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) Talk to your neonatologist or pediatric cardiologist if your premature baby is being treated for lung or heart problems — this study may provide additional monitoring and contribute to better understanding of long-term outcomes.