Weighing just 800g and 750g at birth respectively, the twins’ organs were underdeveloped. After 30 days at a local hospital, Thai Linh was transferred to the Neonatal Department of Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi. Truong Linh’s condition was initially too critical for transfer.

Dr. Nguyen Thu Van, Deputy Head of the Neonatal Department, described Thai Linh’s arrival at Tam Anh. The infant was in respiratory distress, with a history of neonatal infection and fungal infection, and experienced frequent, severe apnea episodes that caused cyanosis.

Thai Linh received kangaroo care, a method ideal for premature babies. It reduces mortality, hospital-acquired infections, and hypothermia, while promoting growth.

Within two weeks, Thai Linh showed significant improvement, breathing and feeding well, and sleeping soundly. Two months after arriving at Tam Anh, the baby was discharged, weighing 3.5kg, with healthy skin and stable developmental indicators.

Dr. Van monitors a premature baby. Illustration photo: *Tam Anh General Hospital*

Truong Linh, born with a lower birth weight than Thai Linh, experienced pulmonary hemorrhage and severe respiratory distress, requiring intubation. After two months of intubation at the local hospital with no improvement, the mother transferred Truong Linh to Tam Anh’s Neonatal Department. There, the baby continued mechanical ventilation, underwent screening for infections and retinal issues, and received intensive care and nutritional support. A week later, Truong Linh was extubated, transitioned to non-invasive ventilation, and began kangaroo care.

After 72 days, Truong Linh was feeding well, showing improvement in retinal health, and gaining weight steadily. The baby was discharged weighing 2.7 kg. Both twins received their vaccinations, starting while they were still on oxygen support.

According to Dr. Van, infants born at 26 weeks are at high risk for infections and respiratory, cardiovascular, hematological, and retinal problems. These often necessitate prolonged resuscitation and multidisciplinary treatment. Interventions such as non-invasive respiratory support, early enteral feeding combined with intravenous nutrition, and kangaroo care contribute to their stabilization.

Hang Tran

*Names have been changed.