Abstract:Objective:To analyze the catch-up growth features of premature infants with different birth weight within one year old in terms of weight, height and head circumference, so as to provide basis for clinical intervention of premature infants. MethodTotally, 85 premature infants were divided into low birth weight group and normal birth weight group. Growth indices like weight, height and head circumference were monitored regularly within 12 months after birth. The medians of Z and △Z values for the three indices were evaluated by Z score method. ResultsThe rise of Z values of the weight, height and head circumference of the infants in the low birth weight group was greater than those in the normal birth weight group. However, their Z values were still lower than those in the normal birth weight group till 12 months after birth. The medians of Z values of weight, height and head circumference began to be greater than 0 from the 5th, 9th, 12th month after birth in the low birth weight group, while from the 3th, 5th, 9th month in the normal birth weight group. The △Z values of weight, height and head circumference were all greater than 0 in both groups within 6 months after birth. The △Z values decreased with the increase of age. ConclusionsThe premature infants have catch-up growth of weight, height and head circumference within the first year after birth, featured by growing faster then slowing down. The catch-up growth of weight appears earlier, and its average time for catching up with the reference is in advance. Premature infants with low birth weight have greater growth potential.