Randomized trial of "slow" versus "fast" feed advancements on the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis in very low birth weight infants

The effects of early enteral feeding, fortification, and rapid feeding advancement in extremely low birth weight infants

BACKGROUND

Preterm infants are at risk for necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and sepsis. Optimal strategies of preterm feeding to achieve full enteral feeding early with minimal duration of central lines without increasing the risk of NEC remain uncertain. We aimed to evaluate if new enteral feeding strategies reflecting early initiation, fortification, and more rapid advancement is beneficial without increasing the risk of NEC.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study including 122 infants born with birth weight < 1000 g during Period 1 (old feeding protocol, n = 61) and Period 2 (new feeding protocol, n = 61) to compare the incidence of NEC, late-onset sepsis, the duration of central line, and the growth outcomes before and after the implementation of feeding strategies to reflect early initiation of feeding within 12 h of life, early fortification at 60 mL/kg/day, and more rapid feeding advancement up to 30 mL/kg/day.

RESULT

Median time to reach full enteral feeds was decreased from 9 to 6 days (p < 0.001). The duration of central venous catheters was also improved from median 7 to 5 days (p < 0.001). The incidence of NEC was not different (11.5 % in Period 1 vs. 8.2 % in Period 2, p = 0.54). 14 infants (23 %) had late-onset sepsis in Period 1 vs. 8 infants (13.1 %) in Period 2 (p = 0.16). The growth outcome was comparable between the two periods (p = 0.47).

CONCLUSION

Earlier initiation of enteral feeding and fortification, and more rapid advancement were safely introduced with significantly shorter duration of central lines without increasing the incidence of NEC.

The Practice of Enteral Nutrition: Clinical Evidence for Feeding Protocols

Establishing full enteral nutrition in critically ill preterm infants with immature gastrointestinal function is challenging. In this article, we will summarize emerging clinical evidence from randomized clinical trials suggesting the feasibility and efficacy of feeding interventions targeting the early establishment of full enteral nutrition. We will also examine trial outcomes of higher volume feedings after the establishment of full enteral nutrition. Only data from randomized clinical trials will be discussed extensively. Future opportunities for clinical research will also be presented.

Fast Feed Advancement for Preterm and Low Birth Weight Infants: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Fast feed advancement may reduce hospital stay and infection but may increase adverse outcomes in preterm and low birth weight infants. The objective of this study was to assess effects of fast feed advancement (≥30 ml/kg per day) compared with slow feed advancement (<30 ml/kg per day) in preterm and low birth weight infants.

METHODS

Data sources include Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Index Medicus through June 30, 2021. Randomized trials were selected. Primary outcomes were mortality, morbidity, growth, and neurodevelopment. Data were extracted and pooled using random-effects models. The Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool was used.

RESULTS

A total of 12 RCTs with 4291 participants were included. At discharge, there was moderate certainty evidence that fast advancement likely slightly reduces the risk of: mortality (relative risk [RR] 0.93, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.73 to 1.18, I2 = 18%, 11 trials, 4132 participants); necrotizing enterocolitis (RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.68 to 1.15, I2 = 0%, 12 trials, 4291 participants); sepsis (RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.83 to 1.03, I2 = 0%, 9 trials, 3648 participants); and feed intolerance (RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.77 to 1.10, I2 = 0%, 8 trials, 1114 participants). Fast feed advancement may also reduce the risk of apnea (RR 0.72, 95% CI 0.47 to 1.12, I2 = 0%, low certainty, 2 trials, 153 participants). Fast feed advancement decreases time to regain birth weight (mean difference [MD] -3.69 days, 95% CI -4.44 to -2.95, I2 = 70%, high certainty, 6 trials, 993 participants,) and likely reduces the duration of hospitalization (MD -3.08 days, 95% CI -4.34 to -1.81, I2 = 77%, moderate certainty, 7 trials, 3864 participants). Limitations include heterogeneity between studies and small sample sizes.

CONCLUSIONS

Fast feed advancement reduces time to regain birth weight and likely reduces the length of hospital stay; it also likely reduces the risk of neonatal morbidity and mortality slightly. However, it may increase the risk of neurodevelopmental disability slightly. More studies are needed to understand the long-term effects of fast feed advancement.

Body Composition and "Catch-Up" Fat Growth in Healthy Small for Gestational Age Preterm Infants and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes

To examine the growth and body composition of small for gestational age (SGA) and appropriate for gestational age (AGA) very low birth weight infants (VLBW) and their outpatient neurodevelopmental outcomes. From 2006-2012, VLBW infants (n = 57 of 92) admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) had serial air displacement plethysmography (ADP) scans and were followed as outpatients. Serial developmental testing (CAT/CLAMS, Peabody Gross Motor Scales) and anthropometrics were obtained from n = 37 infants (29 AGA and 8 SGA) and analyzed via repeated measures analyses of variances. The percentage of body fat, percentage of lean mass, and weight gain were statistically significant between SGA and AGA groups at the first ADP assessment. There was no difference between the two groups in outpatient neurodevelopmental testing. Weight gain as "catch-up" body fat accrual occurs by 67 weeks of PMA. This catch-up growth is associated with normal SGA preterm neurodevelopment as compared to AGA preterm infants.

A Quality Improvement Project to Reduce Time to Full Enteral Feeds for Very Low Birth Weight Neonates

BACKGROUND

Adherence to standardized feeding guidelines has been proposed as a strategy to limit morbidity in very low birth weight neonates. Fostering adherence limits the variability in medicine that affects the quality of patient care. The aim of this study was to reduce by 20% the time to full enteral feeds in very low birth weight neonates in the NICU within a 12-month period.

METHODS

In a level IV regional perinatal center with low utilization of its feeding protocol, a 12-month quality improvement project was conducted with a key intervention of a feeding schedule calculator based on the unit standardized feeding protocol. Through studied education and implementation cycles, these feeding schedules were used to reduce time to full enteral feeds while monitoring adverse events related to their use.

RESULTS

During the course of this quality improvement project, our time to full enteral feeds of 160 ml/kg/day of feeds reduced from 24.7 days to 17.7 days after process changes with special-cause variation noted on control charts. We also showed a significant reduction in mean central line duration over the course of the project from a baseline of 19 days to 14.5 days.

CONCLUSION

Through a key intervention of a feeding volume calculator, we were able to reduce the time to full enteral feeds in neonates without any increase in adverse events of necrotizing enterocolitis or poor weight gain.

Early Total Versus Gradually Advanced Enteral Nutrition in Stable Very-Low-Birth-Weight Preterm Neonates: A Randomized, Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether early total enteral nutrition (80 mL/kg/d) started on day 1 of life in hemodynamically stable preterm very-low-birth-weight (VLBW) neonates with the rapid advancement of feeds (20 mL/kg/d) help in the earlier achievement of full feeds (180 mL/kg/d).

METHODS

Early total enteral nutrition (intervention) group feeding was started with 80 mL/kg/d on the first day in all hemodynamically stable neonates admitted with birth weight of 1000-1499 grams, born at 29-33 wk of gestation as determined by first-trimester ultrasonography (USG) or expanded New Ballard Score (NBS) and was advanced by 20 mL/kg/d until maximum feeds of 180 mL/kg/d were achieved; while in control group feeding was started with 30 mL/kg/d on the first day and was advanced by 20 mL/kg/d until maximum feeds were achieved. Primary outcome measure was time taken to achieve full feeds; secondary outcomes were duration of hospital stay, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), time to regain birth weight, duration of antibiotics, and death.

RESULTS

Sixty VLBW neonates (1000-1499 g) with comparable baseline demographics were randomized within 24 h of admission to two groups. Early total enteral nutrition intervention group (group I, n = 31) achieved the target of full enteral nutrition at median 6 d; IQR: 0 to 7.8 d, a significantly shorter time compared to the controls (n = 29) (median 10 d; IQR: 9 to 11.0 d; p = < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Early total enteral nutrition started from the first day of life results in significantly less time to achieve full feeds in hemodynamically stable preterm and VLBW infants.

Slow advancement of enteral feed volumes to prevent necrotising enterocolitis in very low birth weight infants

BACKGROUND

Early enteral feeding practices are potentially modifiable risk factors for necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) in very preterm or very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. Observational studies suggest that conservative feeding regimens, including slowly advancing enteral feed volumes, reduce the risk of NEC. However, it is unclear whether slow feed advancement may delay establishment of full enteral feeding, and if it could be associated with infectious morbidities secondary to prolonged exposure to parenteral nutrition.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effects of slow rates of enteral feed advancement on the risk of NEC, mortality, and other morbidities in very preterm or VLBW infants.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL (2020, Issue 10), Ovid MEDLINE (1946 to October 2020), Embase via Ovid (1974 to October 2020), Maternity and Infant Care database (MIDIRS) (1971 to October 2020), CINAHL (1982 to October 2020), and clinical trials databases and reference lists of retrieved articles for eligible trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trials that assessed effects of slow (up to 24 mL/kg/d) versus faster rates of advancement of enteral feed volumes on the risk of NEC in very preterm or VLBW infants.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors separately evaluated trial risk of bias, extracted data, and synthesised effect estimates using risk ratio (RR), risk difference (RD), and mean difference. We used the GRADE approach to assess the certainty of evidence. Outcomes of interest were NEC, all-cause mortality, feed intolerance, and invasive infection.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 14 trials involving a total of 4033 infants (2804 infants participated in one large trial). None of the trials masked parents, caregivers, or investigators. Risk of bias was otherwise low. Most infants were stable very preterm or VLBW infants of birth weight appropriate for gestation. About one-third of all infants were extremely preterm or extremely low birth weight (ELBW), and about one-fifth were small for gestational age, growth-restricted, or compromised as indicated by absent or reversed end-diastolic flow velocity in the foetal umbilical artery. Trials typically defined slow advancement as daily increments of 15 to 24 mL/kg, and faster advancement as daily increments of 30 to 40 mL/kg. Meta-analyses showed that slow advancement of enteral feed volumes probably has little or no effect on the risk of NEC (RR 1.06, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.83 to 1.37; RD 0.00, 95% CI -0.01 to 0.02; 14 trials, 4026 infants; moderate-certainty evidence) or all-cause mortality prior to hospital discharge (RR 1.13, 95% CI 0.91 to 1.39; RD 0.01, 95% CI -0.01 to 0.02; 13 trials, 3860 infants; moderate-certainty evidence). Meta-analyses suggested that slow advancement may slightly increase feed intolerance (RR 1.18, 95% CI 0.95 to 1.46; RD 0.05, 95% CI -0.02 to 0.12; 9 trials, 719 infants; low-certainty evidence) and may slightly increase the risk of invasive infection (RR 1.14, 95% CI 0.99 to 1.31; RD 0.02, 95% CI -0.00 to 0.05; 11 trials, 3583 infants; low-certainty evidence).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The available trial data indicate that advancing enteral feed volumes slowly (daily increments up to 24 mL/kg) compared with faster rates probably does not reduce the risk of NEC, death, or feed intolerance in very preterm or VLBW infants. Advancing the volume of enteral feeds at a slow rate may slightly increase the risk of invasive infection.

Enteral Feeding Strategies in Preterm Neonates ≤32 weeks Gestational Age: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

INTRODUCTION

Critical aspects of time of feed initiation, advancement, and volume of feed increment in preterm neonates remain largely unanswered.

METHODS

Medline , Embase, CENTRAL and CINAHL were searched from inception until 25th September 2020. Network meta-analysis with the Bayesian approach was used. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating preterm neonates ≤32 weeks were included. Feeding regimens were divided based on the following categories: initiation day: early (<72 h), moderately early (72 h-7 days), and late (>7 days); advancement day: early (<72 h), moderately early (72 h-7 days), and late (>7 days); increment volume: small volume (SV) (<20 mL/kg/day), moderate volume (MoV) (20-< 30 mL/kg/day), and large volume (≥30 mL/kg/day); and full enteral feeding from the first day. Sixteen regimens were evaluated. Combined outcome of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) stage ≥ II or mortality before discharge was the primary outcome.

RESULTS

A total of 39 studies enrolled around 6,982 neonates. Early initiation (EI) with moderately early or late advancement using MoV increment enteral feeding regimens appeared to be most efficacious in decreasing the risk of NEC or mortality when compared to EI and early advancement with SV increment (risk ratio [95% credible interval]: 0.39 [0.12, 0.95]; 0.34 [0.10, 0.86]) (GRADE-very low).

CONCLUSIONS

Early initiated, moderately early, or late advanced with MoV increment feeding regimens might be most appropriate in decreasing the risk of NEC stage ≥II or mortality. In view of the certainty of evidence being very low, adequately powered RCTs evaluating these 2 strategies are warranted.

The Effect of Intermittent and Continuous Feeding on Growth and Discharge Time in Very Low Birth Weight Preterm Infants

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of intermittent bolus feeding and continuous feeding models on early growth and discharge time in very low birth weight infants.

Methods

The study was designed as a prospective, randomized, and controlled study. Infants born in our hospital with birth weight below 1500 g within a 1 year period were included in the study. The number of samples was determined by power analysis. Babies were randomized according to birth weight and fed with intermittent bolus feeding and continuous feeding models. Demographic characteristics, clinical findings, diagnosis, nutritional status, and length of hospital stay were compared.

Results

The study was conducted with 80 preterm infants, which consisted of continuous feeding (n=41) and intermittent bolus feeding (n=39). There was no significant difference in gender, gestational week, birth weight, height, and head circumference distribution of the babies between groups. The difference between the reach time to birth weight and maximum weight loss rates, parenteral feeding time, transition time to full enteral feeding, transition time to oral feeding, development of feeding intolerance, mechanical ventilation time, and hospitalization time in intensive care unit were not statistically significant. Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) Stage I and II developed in 34.1% of babies fed with continuous feeding model and 28.2% of babies fed intermittently; NEC was detected to start in 4.5±2.8 days in the continuous feeding group and in 2.8±5.2 days in the intermittent group. These differences were found to be insignificant between the two groups (p=0.634 and p=0.266, respectively).

Conclusion

There was no difference between growth parameters and discharge time of preterm babies who were applied continuous and intermittent bolus feeding model. Although there was no statistically significant difference on the development of NEC, it was determined that NEC developed earlier in the intermittent bolus feeding model.

An Initiative to Reduce Preterm Infants Pre-discharge Growth Failure Through Time-specific Feeding Volume Increase

Very low birth weight infants often demonstrate poor postnatal longitudinal growth, which negatively impacts survival rates and long-term health outcomes. Improving extrauterine growth restriction (EUGR) among extremely premature infants has become a significant focus of quality improvement initiatives. Prior efforts in the University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center neonatal intensive care unit were unsuccessful in improving the EUGR rate at discharge.

Two speeds of increasing milk feeds for very preterm or very low-birthweight infants: the SIFT RCT

BACKGROUND

Observational data suggest that slowly advancing enteral feeds in preterm infants may reduce necrotising enterocolitis but increase late-onset sepsis. The Speed of Increasing milk Feeds Trial (SIFT) compared two rates of feed advancement.

OBJECTIVE

To determine if faster (30 ml/kg/day) or slower (18 ml/kg/day) daily feed increments improve survival without moderate or severe disability and other morbidities in very preterm or very low-birthweight infants.

DESIGN

This was a multicentre, two-arm, parallel-group, randomised controlled trial. Randomisation was via a web-hosted minimisation algorithm. It was not possible to safely and completely blind caregivers and parents.

SETTING

The setting was 55 UK neonatal units, from May 2013 to June 2015.

PARTICIPANTS

The participants were infants born at < 32 weeks' gestation or a weight of < 1500 g, who were receiving < 30 ml/kg/day of milk at trial enrolment.

INTERVENTIONS

When clinicians were ready to start advancing feed volumes, the infant was randomised to receive daily feed increments of either 30 ml/kg/day or 18 ml/kg/day. In total, 1400 infants were allocated to fast feeds and 1404 infants were allocated to slow feeds.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was survival without moderate or severe neurodevelopmental disability at 24 months of age, corrected for gestational age. The secondary outcomes were mortality; moderate or severe neurodevelopmental disability at 24 months corrected for gestational age; death before discharge home; microbiologically confirmed or clinically suspected late-onset sepsis; necrotising enterocolitis (Bell's stage 2 or 3); time taken to reach full milk feeds (tolerating 150 ml/kg/day for 3 consecutive days); growth from birth to discharge; duration of parenteral feeding; time in intensive care; duration of hospital stay; diagnosis of cerebral palsy by a doctor or other health professional; and individual components of the definition of moderate or severe neurodevelopmental disability.

RESULTS

The results showed that survival without moderate or severe neurodevelopmental disability at 24 months occurred in 802 out of 1224 (65.5%) infants allocated to faster increments and 848 out of 1246 (68.1%) infants allocated to slower increments (adjusted risk ratio 0.96, 95% confidence interval 0.92 to 1.01). There was no significant difference between groups in the risk of the individual components of the primary outcome or in the important hospital outcomes: late-onset sepsis (adjusted risk ratio 0.96, 95% confidence interval 0.86 to 1.07) or necrotising enterocolitis (adjusted risk ratio 0.88, 95% confidence interval 0.68 to 1.16). Cost-consequence analysis showed that the faster feed increment rate was less costly but also less effective than the slower rate in terms of achieving the primary outcome, so was therefore found to not be cost-effective. Four unexpected serious adverse events were reported, two in each group. None was assessed as being causally related to the intervention.

LIMITATIONS

The study could not be blinded, so care may have been affected by knowledge of allocation. Although well powered for comparisons of all infants, subgroup comparisons were underpowered.

CONCLUSIONS

No clear advantage was identified for the important outcomes in very preterm or very low-birthweight infants when milk feeds were advanced in daily volume increments of 30 ml/kg/day or 18 ml/kg/day. In terms of future work, the interaction of different milk types with increments merits further examination, as may different increments in infants at the extremes of gestation or birthweight.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN76463425.

FUNDING

This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 24, No. 18. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.

Early enteral feeding in preterm infants

Early enteral feeding is a potentially modifiable risk factor for necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) and late onset sepsis (LOS), however enteral feeding practices for preterm infants are highly variable. High-quality evidence is increasingly available to guide early feeding in preterm infants. Meta-analyses of randomised trials indicate that early trophic feeding within 48 h after birth and introduction of progressive enteral feeding before 4 days of life at an advancement rate above 24 ml/kg/day can be achieved in clinically stable very preterm and very low birthweight (VLBW) infants, without higher mortality or incidence of NEC. This finding may not be generalisable to high risk infants such as those born small for gestational age (SGA) or following absent/reversed end diastolic flow velocity (AREDFV) detected antenatally on placental Doppler studies, due to the small number of such infants in existing trials. Trials targeting such high-risk preterm infants have demonstrated that progressive enteral feeding started in the first 4 days is safe and does not lead to higher NEC or mortality; however, there is a paucity of data to guide feeding advancement in such infants. There is little trial evidence to support bolus or continuous gavage feeding as being superior in clinically stable preterm infants. Trials that examine enteral feeding are commonly unblinded for technical and practical reasons, which increases the risk of bias in such trials, specifically when considering potentially subjective outcome such as NEC and LOS; future clinical trials should focus on objective, primary outcome measures such as all-cause mortality, long term growth and neurodevelopment. Alternatively, important short-term outcomes such as NEC could be used with blinded assessment.

Controlled Trial of Two Incremental Milk-Feeding Rates in Preterm Infants

BACKGROUND

Observational data have shown that slow advancement of enteral feeding volumes in preterm infants is associated with a reduced risk of necrotizing enterocolitis but an increased risk of late-onset sepsis. However, data from randomized trials are limited.

METHODS

We randomly assigned very preterm or very-low-birth-weight infants to daily milk increments of 30 ml per kilogram of body weight (faster increment) or 18 ml per kilogram (slower increment) until reaching full feeding volumes. The primary outcome was survival without moderate or severe neurodevelopmental disability at 24 months. Secondary outcomes included components of the primary outcome, confirmed or suspected late-onset sepsis, necrotizing enterocolitis, and cerebral palsy.

RESULTS

Among 2804 infants who underwent randomization, the primary outcome could be assessed in 1224 (87.4%) assigned to the faster increment and 1246 (88.7%) assigned to the slower increment. Survival without moderate or severe neurodevelopmental disability at 24 months occurred in 802 of 1224 infants (65.5%) assigned to the faster increment and 848 of 1246 (68.1%) assigned to the slower increment (adjusted risk ratio, 0.96; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.92 to 1.01; P = 0.16). Late-onset sepsis occurred in 414 of 1389 infants (29.8%) in the faster-increment group and 434 of 1397 (31.1%) in the slower-increment group (adjusted risk ratio, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.86 to 1.07). Necrotizing enterocolitis occurred in 70 of 1394 infants (5.0%) in the faster-increment group and 78 of 1399 (5.6%) in the slower-increment group (adjusted risk ratio, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.68 to 1.16).

CONCLUSIONS

There was no significant difference in survival without moderate or severe neurodevelopmental disability at 24 months in very preterm or very-low-birth-weight infants with a strategy of advancing milk feeding volumes in daily increments of 30 ml per kilogram as compared with 18 ml per kilogram. (Funded by the Health Technology Assessment Programme of the National Institute for Health Research; SIFT Current Controlled Trials number, ISRCTN76463425.).

Quality improvement initiative to decrease time to full feeds and central line utilization among infants born less than or equal to 32 0/7 weeks through compliance with standardized feeding guidelines

BACKGROUND

There are emerging evidences that support more aggressive feeding advancement among preterm infants. Our NICU had conservative feeding advancement guidelines that delayed enteral feeding and prolonged central line use. We aimed to reduce time to full feeds among infants born ≤ 32 0/7 weeks from 12.8 days to 8 days.

METHODS

A multidisciplinary team implemented evidence-based feeding guidelines using quality improvement methods. Days to full enteral feeds, central line days, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) rates, and extrauterine growth restriction (EUGR) rates were analyzed.

RESULTS

Average days to full enteral feeds decreased from 12.8 to 7.7 days and from 17.5 to 9.1 days for infants born ≤ 32 0/7 weeks and ≤ 28 0/7 weeks respectively, without significant change in NEC rate. Central line days decreased by 35%. Insignificant improvement in EUGR rate was found.

CONCLUSIONS

Faster feeding advancement guidelines led to earlier full enteral feeds and reduced central line utilization without increasing complications.

Early Total Enteral Feeding versus Conventional Enteral Feeding in Stable Very-Low-Birth-Weight Infants: A Randomised Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of early total enteral feeding (ETEF) when compared with conventional enteral feeding (CEF) in stable very-low-birth-weight (VLBW; 1,000-1,499 g) infants on the postnatal age (in days) at attaining full enteral feeds.

METHODS

In this unblinded randomised controlled trial, 180 infants were allocated to an ETEF (n = 91) or a CEF group (n = 89). Feeds were initiated as total enteral feeds in the ETEF group and as minimal enteral nutrition (20 mL/kg) in the CEF group. The rest of the day's requirement in the CEF group was provided as parenteral fluids. The primary outcome was postnatal age at attaining full enteral feeds. The secondary outcomes included episodes of feed intolerance, incidence of sepsis and necrotising enterocolitis (NEC), and duration of hospital stay.

RESULTS

The baseline variables including birth weight and gestational age were similar in the two groups. The infants of the ETEF group attained full enteral feeds earlier than those of the CEF group (6.5 ± 1.5 vs. 10.1 ± 4.1 days postnatal age; mean difference -3.6 [-4.5 to -2.7]; p < 0.001). Total episodes of feed intolerance and clinical sepsis were fewer, with a shorter duration of hospital stay, in the ETEF group (15.5 vs. 19.6 days) (p = 0.01). The incidence of NEC was similar in the two groups.

CONCLUSION

ETEF in stable VLBW infants results in earlier attainment of full feeds and decreases the duration of hospital stay without any increased risk of feed intolerance or NEC.

Implementing Standardized Feeding Guidelines, Challenges, and Results

PURPOSE

The purpose of this article was to develop standardized nutritional guidelines that would promote increased growth velocity (GV) in premature infants.

DESIGN

Evidence-based standardized nutritional guidelines were developed. Guidelines included total parenteral nutrition advancement; enteral feeding advancement; and a bedside nurse gastric residual management algorithm. Staff education was given. Guideline compliance was measured. Nutritional intake and daily weights were recorded.

SAMPLE

Infants of birth weight <1,500 grams who were admitted to the NICU before day of life four.

MAIN OUTCOME VARIABLE

Increase in GV from 12 to 15 g/kg/d.

RESULTS

Growth velocity was unchanged. Compliance to the nutritional guidelines was 70 percent. No difference was seen in length of stay. Rate of necrotizing enterocolitis was decreased.

Early Total Enteral Feeding in Stable Very Low Birth Weight Infants: A Before and After Study

BACKGROUND

Fear of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) has perpetuated delayed initiation and slow advancement of enteral feeding in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants with inherent risks of parenteral alimentation. The objective of this study was to assess effect of early total enteral feeding (ETEF) on day of achievement of full enteral feeds, feed intolerance, NEC and sepsis.

METHODS

In total, 208 stable VLBW neonates (28-34 weeks) admitted during 6 month periods of three consecutive years were enrolled. First phase (n = 73) constituted the 'before' phase with standard practice of initial intravenous fluid therapy and slow enteral feeding. The second prospective phase (n = 51) consisted of implementation of ETEF with infants receiving full enteral feeds as per day's fluid requirement since Day 1 of life. The third phase (n = 84) was chosen to assess the sustainability of change in practice.

RESULTS

Day of achievement of full feeds was significantly earlier in Phases 2 and 3 compared with Phase 1 (8.97 and 5.47 vs. 14.44 days, respectively, p = 0.0001). Incidence of feed intolerance was comparable between Phases 1 and 2 (22 vs. 14%, p = 0.28), with marked reduction in incidence of NEC (14 vs. 4%, p = 0.028). There was a significant decrease in sepsis, duration of parenteral fluid and antibiotic therapy as well as hospital stay with comparable mortality.

CONCLUSION

In stable preterm VLBW infants, ETEF is safe and has the benefit of optimizing nutrition with decrease in sepsis, NEC and hospital stay.

Slow advancement of enteral feed volumes to prevent necrotising enterocolitis in very low birth weight infants

BACKGROUND

Early enteral feeding practices are potentially modifiable risk factors for necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) in very preterm or very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. Observational studies suggest that conservative feeding regimens, including slowly advancing enteral feed volumes, reduce the risk of NEC. However, slow feed advancement may delay establishment of full enteral feeding and may be associated with metabolic and infectious morbidities secondary to prolonged exposure to parenteral nutrition.

OBJECTIVES

To determine effects of slow rates of enteral feed advancement on the incidence of NEC, mortality, and other morbidities in very preterm or VLBW infants.

SEARCH METHODS

We used the standard Cochrane Neonatal search strategy to search the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2017, Issue 5), MEDLINE via PubMed (1966 to June 2017), Embase (1980 to June 2017), and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL; 1982 to June 2017). We searched clinical trials databases, conference proceedings, previous reviews, and reference lists of retrieved articles for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-randomised trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trials that assessed effects of slow (up to 24 mL/kg/d) versus faster rates of advancement of enteral feed volumes upon the incidence of NEC in very preterm or VLBW infants.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors assessed trial eligibility and risk of bias and independently extracted data. We analysed treatment effects in individual trials and reported risk ratio (RR) and risk difference (RD) for dichotomous data, and mean difference (MD) for continuous data, with respective 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We used a fixed-effect model for meta-analyses and explored potential causes of heterogeneity via sensitivity analyses. We assessed the quality of evidence at the outcome level using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified 10 RCTs in which a total of 3753 infants participated (2804 infants participated in one large trial). Most participants were stable very preterm infants of birth weight appropriate for gestation. About one-third of all participants were extremely preterm or extremely low birth weight (ELBW), and about one-fifth were small for gestational age (SGA), growth-restricted, or compromised in utero, as indicated by absent or reversed end-diastolic flow velocity (AREDFV) in the fetal umbilical artery. Trials typically defined slow advancement as daily increments of 15 to 20 mL/kg, and faster advancement as daily increments of 30 to 40 mL/kg. Trials generally were of good methodological quality, although none was blinded.Meta-analyses did not show effects on risk of NEC (typical RR 1.07, 95% CI 0.83 to 1.39; RD 0.0, 95% CI -0.01 to 0.02) or all-cause mortality (typical RR 1.15, 95% CI 0.93 to 1.42; typical RD 0.01, 95% CI -0.01 to 0.03). Subgroup analyses of extremely preterm or ELBW infants, or of SGA or growth-restricted or growth-compromised infants, showed no evidence of an effect on risk of NEC or death. Slow feed advancement delayed establishment of full enteral nutrition by between about one and five days. Meta-analysis showed borderline increased risk of invasive infection (typical RR 1.15, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.32; typical RD 0.03, 95% CI 0.00 to 0.05). The GRADE quality of evidence for primary outcomes was "moderate", downgraded from "high" because of lack of blinding in the included trials.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Available trial data do not provide evidence that advancing enteral feed volumes at daily increments of 15 to 20 mL/kg (compared with 30 to 40 mL/kg) reduces the risk of NEC or death in very preterm or VLBW infants, extremely preterm or ELBW infants, SGA or growth-restricted infants, or infants with antenatal AREDFV. Advancing the volume of enteral feeds at a slow rate results in several days of delay in establishing full enteral feeds and may increase the risk of invasive infection.

Optimizing Nutrition in Preterm Low Birth Weight Infants-Consensus Summary

Preterm birth survivors are at a higher risk of growth and developmental disabilities compared to their term counterparts. Development of strategies to lower the complications of preterm birth forms the rising need of the hour. Appropriate nutrition is essential for the growth and development of preterm infants. Early administration of optimal nutrition to preterm birth survivors lowers the risk of adverse health outcomes and improves cognition in adulthood. A group of neonatologists, pediatricians, and nutrition experts convened to discuss and frame evidence-based recommendations for optimizing nutrition in preterm low birth weight (LBW) infants. The following were the primary recommendations of the panel: (1) enteral feeding is safe and may be preferred to parenteral nutrition due to the complications associated with the latter; however, parenteral nutrition may be a useful adjunct to enteral feeding in some critical cases; (2) early, fast, or continuous enteral feeding yields better outcomes compared to late, slow, or intermittent feeding, respectively; (3) routine use of nasogastric tubes is not advisable; (4) preterm infants can be fed while on ventilator or continuous positive airway pressure; (5) routine evaluation of gastric residuals and abdominal girth should be avoided; (6) expressed breast milk (EBM) is the first choice for feeding preterm infants due to its beneficial effects on cardiovascular, neurological, bone health, and growth outcomes; the second choice is donor pasteurized human milk; (7) EBM or donor milk may be fortified with human milk fortifiers, without increasing the osmolality of the milk, to meet the high protein requirements of preterm infants; (8) standard fortification is effective and safe but does not fulfill the high protein needs; (9) use of targeted and adjustable fortification, where possible, helps provide optimal nutrition; (10) optimizing weight gain in preterm infants prevents long-term cardiovascular complications; (11) checking for optimal weight and sucking/swallowing ability is essential prior to discharge of preterm infants; and (12) appropriate counseling and regular follow-up and monitoring after discharge will help achieve better long-term health outcomes. This consensus summary serves as a useful guide to clinicians in addressing the challenges and providing optimal nutrition to preterm LBW infants.

Implementation of Feeding Guidelines Hastens the Time to Initiation of Enteral Feeds and Improves Growth Velocity in Very Low Birth-Weight Infants

BACKGROUND

Growth and nutrition are critical in neonatal care. Whether feeding guidelines improve growth and nutrition and reduce morbidity is unknown.

PURPOSE

Feeding guidelines for very low birth-weight (VLBW) infants were implemented in our neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to start and achieve full enteral feeds sooner, and increase weight gain over the first month.

METHODS

Feeding guidelines for VLBW infants were implemented in January 2014, stratified by birth weight (<750, 750-1000, and 1000-1500 g). After trophic feedings, enteral feedings were advanced by 20 to 30 mL/kg/d.Data were analyzed for 2 years prior (baseline) and 6 months after (guideline) guidelines were implemented and included days to initiation of enteral feeds, days on total parenteral nutrition (TPN), and weight gain over the first month. Potential concomitant factors that could affect feeding tolerance were examined including indomethacin or dopamine treatment, delivery room cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and growth restriction.

RESULTS

A total of 95 infants with a birth weight of less than 1500 g were included (59 baseline and 36 guideline). Days to start enteral feeds decreased by 47% (P < .01) and days on TPN decreased by 25% (16 days vs 11 days; P < .01). Weight gain over the first month of life increased by 15% (p < .05). Dopamine and indomethacin use decreased during the study period, and small for gestational age infants were overrepresented in the guideline group.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE/RESEARCH

Establishment of feeding guidelines for VLBW infants in our NICU reduced the days to start feeds and days on TPN while increasing weight gain over the first month. Improving growth and nutrition and reducing need for TPN in this vulnerable population may ultimately prevent infection and improve neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Monitoring Enteral Nutrition Support Tolerance in Infants and Children

Enteral nutrition support is used extensively in the care of infants and children, both for acute and chronic conditions. Monitoring a child's tolerance of enteral feedings is an ongoing challenge. Monitoring routines vary significantly between institutions, practitioners, and patient settings, and a number of definitions are used for "intolerance." Some guidelines have scientific basis and others are passed along in a more anecdotal fashion. This review describes commonly used monitors for tolerance to enteral nutrition for infants and children and discusses pertinent data relevant to practice.

Does rapid enteral feeding increase intestinal morbidity in very low birth weight infants? A retrospective analysis

PURPOSE

To investigate the association of a standardized rapid enteral feeding strategy (established in 2011 in our unit) with intestinal morbidity in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants.

METHODS

A total of 301 inborn VLBW infants were included in this single-centre retrospective cohort study. We compared the incidence of intestinal morbidity (defined as necrotizing enterocolitis or intestinal perforation) in slowly enterally fed infants in 2008-2010 (10 ml/kg/day increase of milk feeds) to a corresponding cohort of rapidly enterally fed infants in 2011-2013 (20 ml/kg/day increase of milk feeds). Univariate and multivariable logistic and linear regression analyses, respectively, were performed to control for confounding variables.

RESULTS

Both groups were similar regarding baseline demographic and perinatal characteristics. In univariate modeling, intestinal morbidity did not significantly differ between the two groups (p = 0.25), neither did all-cause mortality nor incidence of late onset sepsis in multivariable modeling. In contrast, length of hospital stay (HS) and duration of parenteral nutrition (PEN) were significantly shorter in the rapid group (HS: -8.35 days, p = 0.012 and PEN: -7.13 days, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of a more rapid enteral feeding regime is safe in VLBW infants and may significantly shorten length of HS and PEN in this cohort.

A randomised controlled trial of high vs low volume initiation and rapid vs slow advancement of milk feeds in infants with birthweights ≤ 1000 g in a resource-limited setting

BACKGROUND

Optimal feeding regimens for infants ≤ 1000 g have not been established and are a global healthcare concern.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

A controlled trial to establish the safety and efficacy of high vs low volume initiation and rapid vs slow advancement of milk feeds in a resource-limited setting was undertaken.

METHODS

Infants ≤ 1000 g birthweight were randomised to one of four arms, either low (4 ml/kg/day) or high (24 ml/kg/day) initiation and either slow (24 ml/kg/day) or rapid (36 ml/kg/day) advancement of exclusive feeds of human milk (mother's or donor) until a weight of 1200 g was reached. After this point, formula was used to supplement insufficient mother's milk. The primary outcome was time to reach 1500 g.

RESULTS

infants were recruited (51: low/slow; 47: low/rapid; 52: high/slow; 50: high/rapid). Infants on rapid advancement regimens reached 1500 g most rapidly (hazard ratio 1.48, 95% CI 1.05-2.09, P=0.03). The rapid advancement groups also regained birthweight more rapidly (hazard ratio 1.77, 95% CI 1.26-2.50, P=0.001). There was no apparent effect of high vs low initiation volumes but there was some evidence of interaction between interventions. There were no significant differences in other secondary outcomes, including necrotising enterocolitis, feed intolerance and late-onset sepsis.

CONCLUSIONS

In this small pilot study, higher initiation feed volumes and larger daily increments appeared to be well tolerated and resulted in more rapid early weight gain. These data provide justification for a larger study in resource-limited settings to address mortality, necrotising enterocolitis and other important outcomes.

Transitioning Preterm Infants From Parenteral Nutrition: A Comparison of 2 Protocols

BACKGROUND

Growth in preterm infants is compromised during the transition phase of nutrition, when parenteral nutrition (PN) volumes are weaned with advancing enteral nutrition (EN) feeds, likely due to suboptimal nutrient intakes during this time. We implemented new PN guidelines designed to maintain optimal nutrient intakes during the transition phase and compared growth outcomes of this cohort with a control group.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A chart review was conducted on infants born <32 weeks' gestation, before (control group) and after (study group) a new transition PN protocol was implemented in the neonatal intensive care unit. Weight parameters and nutrient intakes were calculated for the transition phase and compared between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

Demographic and clinical characteristics of the 2 groups were comparable except for higher rates of sepsis in control group. Weight-for-age z scores at birth, at 1 week of life, and at the start of the transition phase were similar. At the end of the transition phase, infants in the study group had significantly higher z scores compared with the control group, even when corrected for sepsis, a difference that persisted at 35 weeks' gestation. During the transition phase, study infants gained 16.1 ± 4.6 g/kg/d compared with 13.2 ± 5.4 g/kg/d in control group ( P < .001). Similar results were observed in the subset of expressed breastmilk-only fed infants (15.9 ± 4.6 g/kg/d in the study group compared with 13.2 ± 5.4 g/kg/d in the control group, P < .004).

CONCLUSION

Optimizing nutrition by the use of concentrated PN during the transition phase to maintain appropriate nutrient intakes improves growth rates in preterm infants.

Slow advancement of enteral feed volumes to prevent necrotising enterocolitis in very low birth weight infants

BACKGROUND

Early enteral feeding practices are potentially modifiable risk factors for necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) in very preterm or very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. Observational studies suggest that conservative feeding regimens, including slowly advancing enteral feed volumes, reduce the risk of NEC. However, slow feed advancement may delay establishment of full enteral feeding and be associated with metabolic and infectious morbidities secondary to prolonged exposure to parenteral nutrition.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effect of slow rates of enteral feed advancement on the incidence of NEC, mortality, and other morbidities in very preterm or VLBW infants.

SEARCH METHODS

We used the standard search strategy of the Cochrane Neonatal Review group to search the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL 2015, Issue 7), MEDLINE via PubMed (1966 to August 2015), EMBASE (1980 to August 2015), and CINAHL (1982 to August 2015). We also searched clinical trials databases, conference proceedings, previous reviews, and the reference lists of retrieved articles for randomised controlled trials and quasi-randomised trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trials that assessed the effect of slow (up to 24 mL/kg/day) versus faster rates of advancement of enteral feed volumes upon the incidence of NEC in very preterm or VLBW infants.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently assessed trial eligibility and risk of bias and undertook data extraction. We analysed the treatment effects in the individual trials and reported the risk ratio (RR) and risk difference (RD) for dichotomous data and mean difference for continuous data, with respective 95% confidence intervals (CI). We used a fixed-effect model in meta-analyses and explored the potential causes of heterogeneity in sensitivity analyses.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified nine randomised controlled trials in which 949 infants participated. Most participants were stable preterm infants with birth weights between 1000 and 1500 g. Fewer participants were extremely preterm, extremely low birth weight, or growth-restricted. The trials typically defined slow advancement as daily increments of 15 to 24 mL/kg and faster advancement as 30 to 40 mL/kg. Meta-analyses did not show statistically significant effects on the risk of NEC (typical RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.64 to 1.62; typical RD -0.00, 95% CI -0.03 to 0.03) or all-cause mortality (typical RR 1.18, 95% CI 0.90 to 1.53; typical RD 0.03, 95% CI -0.02 to 0.08). Slow feeds advancement delayed the establishment of full enteral nutrition by one to five days and increased the risk of invasive infection (typical RR 1.46, 95% CI 1.03 to 2.06; typical RD 0.07, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.13; number needed to treat for an additional harmful outcome 14, 95% CI 8 to 100).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The available trial data suggest that advancing enteral feed volumes at daily increments of 30 to 40 mL/kg (compared to 15 to 24 mL/kg) does not increase the risk of NEC or death in VLBW infants. Advancing the volume of enteral feeds at slow rates results in several days of delay in establishing full enteral feeds and increases the risk of invasive infection. The applicability of these findings to extremely preterm, extremely low birth weight, or growth-restricted infants is limited. Further randomised controlled trials in these populations may be warranted to resolve this uncertainty.

Standardized Slow Enteral Feeding Protocol and the Incidence of Necrotizing Enterocolitis in Extremely Low Birth Weight Infants

BACKGROUND

Compared with early enteral feeds, the delayed introduction and slow advancement of enteral feedings to reduce the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) are not well studied in extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants.

OBJECTIVE

To study the effects of a standardized slow enteral feeding (SSEF) protocol in ELBW infants.

METHODS

ELBW infants who followed an SSEF protocol (September 2009 to December 2012) were compared with a similar group of historical controls (January 2003 to July 2009). Short-term outcomes between the 2 groups were compared by propensity score (PS) analysis.

RESULTS

One hundred twenty-five infants in the SSEF group were compared with 294 historical controls. Compared with the controls, feeding initiation day, full enteral feeding day, parenteral nutrition (PN) days, and total central line days were longer in the SSEF group. There was no significant difference in overall NEC (5.6% vs 11.2%, respectively; P = .10) or surgical NEC (1.6% vs 4.8%, respectively; P = .17) between the SSEF group and controls. However, in infants with birth weight <750 g, NEC (2.1% vs 16.2%, respectively; P < .01) or combined NEC/death (12.8% vs 29.5%, respectively; P = .03) was significantly less in the SSEF group compared with controls. In infants who survived to discharge, there was no significant difference in the discharge weight or length of stay in PS-adjusted analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

An SSEF protocol significantly reduces the incidence of NEC and combined NEC/death in infants with birth weight <750 g. Despite taking longer to achieve full enteral feeding on this protocol, surviving ELBW infants demonstrated comparable weight gain at discharge without prolonging their hospital stay.

Evidence-based feeding strategies before and after the development of necrotizing enterocolitis

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a devastating disease of premature infants and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. While the pathogenesis of NEC remains incompletely understood, it is well established that the risk of disease is increased by the administration of infant formula and decreased by the administration of breast milk. This review will focus on the mechanisms by which breast milk may serve to protect against NEC, and will review the evidence regarding various feeding strategies that may be utilized before and after an episode of NEC.

Management during the first 72 h of age of the periviable infant: an evidence-based review

After NICU admission the extremely immature newborn (EIN) requires evaluation and support of each organ system, and the integration of all those supports in a comprehensive plan of care. In this review, I attempt to analyze the evidence for treatment options after the initial transition, during the first 3 days of life, which have been shown to improve survival or short- or long-term morbidity. This review revealed several things: there is little available evidence from studies that have included significant numbers of EINs; interventions affecting different organ systems need to be co-ordinated as any intervention will have multiple effects; and future advances in treatment of this group of patients will require the installation of permanent research networks to have enough power to perform many studies needed to improve outcomes.

Slow advancement of enteral feed volumes to prevent necrotising enterocolitis in very low birth weight infants

BACKGROUND

Early enteral feeding practices are potentially modifiable risk factors for necrotising enterocolitis in very preterm or very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. Observational studies suggest that conservative feeding regimens, including slowly advancing enteral feed volumes, reduce the risk of necrotising enterocolitis. However, slow feed advancement may delay establishment of full enteral feeding and be associated with metabolic and infectious morbidities secondary to prolonged exposure to parenteral nutrition.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effect of slow rates of enteral feed advancement on the incidence of necrotising enterocolitis, mortality, and other morbidities in very preterm or VLBW infants.

SEARCH METHODS

We used the standard search strategy of the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group Specialised Register. We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL 2014, Issue 8), MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL (to September 2014), conference proceedings, and previous reviews.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trials that assessed the effect of slow (up to 24 ml/kg per day) versus faster rates of advancement of enteral feed volumes upon the incidence of necrotising enterocolitis in very preterm or VLBW infants.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently assessed trial eligibility and risk of bias and undertook data extraction. We analysed the treatment effects in the individual trials and reported the risk ratio and risk difference for dichotomous data and mean difference for continuous data, with respective 95% confidence intervals. We used a fixed-effect model in meta-analyses and explored the potential causes of heterogeneity in sensitivity analyses.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified six randomised controlled trials in which a total of 618 infants participated. Most participants were stable preterm infants of birth weight between 1000 g and 1500 g. Few participants were extremely preterm, extremely low birth weight, or growth-restricted. The trials typically defined slow advancement as daily increments of 15 ml/kg to 20 ml/kg and faster advancement as 30 ml/kg to 35 ml/kg. Meta-analyses did not detect statistically significant effects on the risk of necrotising enterocolitis (typical risk ratio (RR) 0.96, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.55 to 1.70) or all-cause mortality (typical RR 1.57, 95% CI 0.92 to 2.70). Infants who had slow advancement took significantly longer to regain birth weight (reported median differences 2 to 6 days) and to establish full enteral feeding (1 to 5 days).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The available trial data suggest that advancing enteral feed volumes at daily increments of 30 ml/kg to 35 ml/kg does not increase the risk of necrotising enterocolitis in very preterm or VLBW infants. Advancing the volume of enteral feeds at slow rates resulted in several days delay in regaining birth weight and establishing full enteral feeds. The applicability of these findings to extremely preterm, extremely low birth weight, or growth-restricted infants is limited. Further randomised controlled trials in these populations may be warranted to resolve this uncertainty.

Feeding intolerance in the preterm infant

Feeding intolerance (FI), defined as the inability to digest enteral feedings associated to increased gastric residuals, abdominal distension and/or emesis, is frequently encountered in the very preterm infant and often leads to a disruption of the feeding plan. In most cases FI represents a benign condition related to the immaturity of gastrointestinal function, however its presentation may largely overlap with that of an impending necrotizing enterocolitis. As a consequence, individual interpretation of signs of FI represents one of the most uncontrollable variables in the early nutritional management of these infants, and may lead to suboptimal nutrition, delayed attainment of full enteral feeding and prolonged intravenous nutrition supply. Strategies aimed at preventing and/or treating FI are diverse, although very few have been validated in large RCT and systematic reviews. The purpose of this paper is to summarize the existing information on this topic, spanning from patho-physiological and clinical aspects to the prevention and treatment strategies tested in clinical studies, with specific attention to practical issues.

Microbial ecosystems therapeutics: a new paradigm in medicine?

Increasing evidence indicates that the complex microbial ecosystem of the human intestine plays a critical role in protecting the host against disease. This review discusses gut dysbiosis (here defined as a state of imbalance in the gut microbial ecosystem, including overgrowth of some organisms and loss of others) as the foundation for several diseases, and the applicability of refined microbial ecosystem replacement therapies as a future treatment modality. Consistent with the concept of a 'core' microbiome encompassing key functions required for normal intestinal homeostasis, 'Microbial Ecosystem Therapeutics' (MET) would entail replacing a dysfunctional, damaged ecosystem with a fully developed and healthy ecosystem of 'native' intestinal bacteria. Its application in treating Clostridium difficile infection is discussed and possible applications to other diseases such as ulcerative colitis, obesity, necrotising enterocolitis, and regressive-type autism are reviewed. Unlike conventional probiotic therapies that are generally limited to a single strain or at most a few strains of bacteria 'Microbial Ecosystem Therapeutics' would utilise whole bacterial communities derived directly from the human gastrointestinal tract. By taking into account the intrinsic needs of the entire microbial ecosystem, MET would emphasise the rational design of healthy, resilient and robust microbial communities that could be used to maintain or restore human health. More than simply a new probiotic treatment, this emerging paradigm in medicine may lead to novel strategies in treating and managing a wide variety of human diseases.

Feasibility of exclusive enteral feeds from birth in VLBW infants >1200 g--an RCT

AIM

To evaluate the feasibility of initiation of exclusive enteral feeds on first day of life in very low birthweight infants >1200 g.

METHODS

Haemodynamically stable infants with birthweights 1200-1500 g irrespective of gestational age were randomized into two groups.

STUDY GROUP

Enteral feeds 80 mL/kg/day started within 1 h of birth and increased by 20 mL/kg/day to 180 mL/kg/day. No intravenous fluids given.

CONTROL GROUP

Intravenous fluids 50 mL/kg/day started along with enteral feeds 30 mL/kg/day within 1 h of birth and increased by 20 mL/kg/day to 180 mL/kg/day. The outcome measures were - primary: time to regain birthweight and secondary: duration of hospital stay, incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis and sepsis.

RESULTS

Twenty three babies randomized in each group. Infants in study group regained birthweight earlier [mean 5.52 days, SD ± 2.94] compared to those in control group [mean 12.7 days, SD ± 2.25] (p < 0.0001). Duration of hospital stay was lower in study group [mean 15.04 days, SD ± 5.26] compared to those in control group [mean 28.04 days, SD ± 6.76] (p < 0.0001). No necrotizing enterocolitis detected.

CONCLUSION

It is feasible to initiate exclusive enteral feeds from first day of life in stable infants with birthweight between 1200 and 1500 g without any parenteral fluid support. It leads to twice as faster regaining of birthweight and halves duration of hospital stay.

Slow advancement of enteral feed volumes to prevent necrotising enterocolitis in very low birth weight infants

BACKGROUND

Early enteral feeding practices are potentially modifiable risk factors for necrotising enterocolitis in very preterm or very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. Observational studies suggest that conservative feeding regimens that include slowly advancing enteral feed volumes reduce the risk of necrotising enterocolitis. However, slow feed advancement may delay establishment of full enteral feeding and be associated with metabolic and infectious morbidities secondary to prolonged exposure to parenteral nutrition.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effect of slow rates of enteral feed advancement on the incidence of necrotising enterocolitis, mortality and other morbidities in very preterm or VLBW infants.

SEARCH METHODS

We used the standard search strategy of the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group. We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library 2012, Issue 12), MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL (to December 2012), conference proceedings, and previous reviews.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trials that assessed the effect of slow (up to 24 ml/kg/day) versus faster rates of advancement of enteral feed volumes upon the incidence of necrotising enterocolitis in very preterm or VLBW infants.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Data collection and analysis was performed using the standard methods of the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified five randomised controlled trials in which a total of 588 infants participated. Few participants were extremely preterm, extremely low birth weight or growth restricted. The trials defined slow advancement as daily increments of 15 to 20 ml/kg and faster advancement as 30 to 35 ml/kg. Meta-analyses did not detect statistically significant effects on the risk of necrotising enterocolitis (typical risk ratio (RR) 0.97, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.54 to 1.74) or all-cause mortality (RR 1.41, 95% CI 0.81 to 2.74). Infants who had slow advancement took significantly longer to regain birth weight (reported median differences two to six days) and to establish full enteral feeding (two to five days).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The available trial data suggest that advancing enteral feed volumes at slow rather than faster rates does not reduce the risk of necrotising enterocolitis in very preterm or VLBW infants. Advancing the volume of enteral feeds at slow rates results in several days delay in regaining birth weight and establishing full enteral feeds but the long term clinical importance of these effects is unclear. The applicability of these findings to extremely preterm, extremely low birth weight or growth restricted infants is limited. Further randomised controlled trials in these populations may be warranted to resolve this uncertainty.

A historic cohort study on accelerated advancement of enteral feeding volumes in very premature infants

BACKGROUND

The optimal rate of enteral feeding (EF) advancement in very low birth weight infants is under debate.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effects of accelerated EF advancement on the time to full enteral feeds, on early postnatal growth as well as on the frequency of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and focal intestinal perforation (FIP) in very premature infants.

METHODS

In a retrospective single-center historic cohort study, infants with a gestational age <32 weeks at birth and birth weight <1,500 g, born between January 1, 2006, and December 31, 2007 (n = 136), were compared with infants born between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2010 (n = 88). In 2006/2007, enteral feeds were initiated on day 1 with 10-15 ml/kg/day and advanced by 15-20 ml/kg/day. In 2010, enteral feeds were initiated with 20 ml/kg/day on day 1 and advanced by 25-30 ml/kg/day. Full enteral feeds were defined as ≥ 140 ml/kg/day. Data are presented as median (P25-P75).

RESULTS

The time to establish full enteral feeds was shorter in 2010: 8 (7-11) days in 2006/2007 versus 6 (5-9) days in 2010. The incidences of NEC and FIP were 2.7 and 4.1% in 2006/2007 and 3.3 and 2.2% in 2010, respectively. Weight gain was not affected by the rate of EF advancement. Higher parenteral protein intake during week 1 in 2006/2007 was associated with better head circumference growth.

CONCLUSIONS

The new approach was associated with a significantly shorter period to establish full enteral feeds. No difference in the incidence of FIP or NEC was observed; however, the study was underpowered to detect small but possibly important differences.

Treatment of necrotizing enterocolitis: an American Pediatric Surgical Association Outcomes and Clinical Trials Committee systematic review

OBJECTIVE

The optimal treatment of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a common challenge for pediatric surgeons. Although many studies have evaluated prevention and medical therapy for NEC, few guidelines for surgical care exist. The aim of this systematic review is to review and evaluate the currently available evidence for the surgical care of patients with NEC.

METHODS

Data were compiled from a search of PubMed, OVID, the Cochrane Library database, and Web of Science from January 1985 until December 2011. Publications were screened, and their references were hand-searched to identify additional studies. Clinicaltrials.gov was also searched to identify ongoing or unpublished trials. The American Pediatric Surgical Association Outcomes and Clinical Trials Committee proposed six questions deemed pertinent to the surgical treatment of NEC. Recent Cochrane Reviews examined three of these topics; a literature review was performed to address the additional three specific questions.

RESULTS

The Cochrane Reviews support the use of prophylactic probiotics in preterm infants less than 2500 grams to reduce the incidence of NEC, as well as the use of human breast milk rather than formula when possible. There is no clear evidence to support delayed initiation or slow advancement of feeds. For surgical treatment of NEC with perforation, there is no clear support of peritoneal drainage versus laparotomy. Similarly, there is a lack of evidence comparing enterostomy versus primary anastomosis after resection at laparotomy. There are little data to determine the length of treatment with antibiotics to prevent recurrence of NEC.

CONCLUSION

Based on available evidence, probiotics are advised to decrease the incidence of NEC, and human milk should be used when possible. The other reviewed questions are clinically relevant, but there is a lack of evidence-based data to support definitive recommendations. These areas of NEC treatment would benefit from future investigation.

Randomized controlled trial of slow vs rapid enteral feeding advancements on the clinical outcomes of preterm infants with birth weight 750-1250 g

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of slow vs rapid rates of advancement of enteral feed volumes on the clinical outcomes in preterm infants with 750-1250 g birth weight.

STUDY DESIGN

A total of 92 stable neonates 750-1250 g and gestational age <32 weeks were randomly allocated to enteral feeding advancement of 20 mL/kg/d (n = 46) or 30 mL/kg/d (n = 46). The primary outcome was days to reach full enteral feeding, defined as 180 mL/kg/d. Secondary outcomes included rates of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and culture-proven sepsis, days of parenteral nutrition (PN), length of hospital stay, and growth end points.

RESULTS

Neonates in the rapid-feeding advancement group achieved full enteral volume of feedings earlier than the slower advancement group. They received significantly fewer days of PN, exhibited a shorter time to regain birth weight, and had a shorter duration of hospital stay. The incidence of NEC and the number of episodes of feeding intolerance were not significantly different between the groups, whereas the incidence of culture-proven late-onset sepsis was significantly less in infants receiving a rapid feeding advancement. Excluding infants who were small for gestational age at birth, the incidence of extrauterine growth restriction was significantly reduced in the rapid-advancement group at 28 days and at hospital discharge.

CONCLUSION

Rapid enteral feeding advancements in 750-1250 g birth weight infants reduce the time to reach full enteral feeding and the use of PN administration. Rapid-advancement enteral feed also decreases extrauterine growth restriction with improved short-term outcomes for these high-risk infants.

Necrotizing enterocolitis

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is the most common acquired gastrointestinal disease of premature neonates and is a serious cause of morbidity and mortality. NEC is one of the leading causes of death in neonatal intensive care units. Surgical treatment is necessary in patients whose disease progresses despite medical therapy. Surgical options include peritoneal drainage and laparotomy, with studies showing no difference in outcome related to approach. Survivors, particularly those requiring surgery, face serious sequelae.

The impact of feeding interval on feeding outcomes in very low birth-weight infants

OBJECTIVE

Test the hypothesis that very low birth-weight (VLBW) infants fed every 2 h (q2) are able to reach full enteral feedings more quickly than infants fed every 3 h (q3).

STUDY DESIGN

We performed a retrospective cohort study comparing q2 infants (n=103) with q3 infants (n=251). The primary outcome was days from start of a feeding advance to full feedings (120 ml per kg per day). Multivariable regression models were used to control for maternal and perinatal factors that preceded the initiation of the feeding advance.

RESULT

Infants fed q2 reached full feedings 2.7 days sooner than q3 infants (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.5, 3.9). After adjustment for confounders, q2 infants reached full feedings 3.7 (95% CI 1.6, 5.9) days more quickly. Infants fed q3 were more likely to receive >28 days of parenteral nutrition (odds ratio (OR) 4.7; 95% CI 1.5, 14.4), and were more likely to have feeds held for ≥ 7 days (OR 4.7, 95% CI 1.9, 11.7).

CONCLUSION

VLBW infants demonstrate improved feeding tolerance when fed more frequently.

Necrotizing enterocolitis in the premature infant: neonatal nursing assessment, disease pathogenesis, and clinical presentation

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) remains one of the most catastrophic comorbidities associated with prematurity. In spite of extensive research, the disease remains unsolved. The aims of this article are to present the current state of the science on the pathogenesis of NEC, summarize the clinical presentation and severity staging of the disease, and highlight the nursing assessments required for early identification of NEC and ongoing care for infants diagnosed with this gastrointestinal disease. The distributions of systemic and intestinal clinical signs that are most sensitive to nursing assessment and associated with Bell Staging Criteria are presented. These descriptive data are representative of 117 cases of NEC diagnosed in low-gestational-age infants (<29 weeks' gestation). The data highlight the clinical signs most commonly observed in infants with NEC and thus provide NICU nurses an evidence-based guide for assessment and care of infants with NEC.

Slow advancement of enteral feed volumes to prevent necrotising enterocolitis in very low birth weight infants

BACKGROUND

The major modifiable risk factors for necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants relate to enteral feeding practices. Observational studies suggest that conservative feeding regimens that include slowly advancing enteral feed volumes reduce the risk of NEC. However, slow feed advancement may delay establishment of full enteral feeding and so be associated with metabolic and infectious morbidities secondary to prolonged exposure to parenteral nutrition.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effect of slow rates of enteral feed advancement on the incidence of NEC, mortality and other morbidities in VLBW infants.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We used the standard search strategy of the Cochrane Neonatal Group. We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL, The Cochrane Library, 2010, Issue 4), MEDLINE (1966 to December 2010), EMBASE (1980 to December 2010), CINAHL (1982 to December 2010), conference proceedings, and previous reviews.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trials that assessed the effect of slow (up to 24 ml/kg/day) versus faster rates of advancement of enteral feed volumes upon the incidence of NEC in VLBW infants.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Data collection and analysis was performed in accordance with the standard methods of the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified four randomised controlled trials in which a total of 496 infants participated. Few participants were extremely low birth weight or growth restricted. The trials defined slow advancement as daily increments of 15 to 20 ml/kg and faster advancement as 30 to 35 ml/kg. Meta-analyses did not detect statistically significant effects on the risk of NEC (typical relative risk 0.91, 95% confidence interval 0.47 to 1.75) or all cause mortality (typical relative risk 1.43, 95% confidence interval 0.78 to 2.61). Infants who had slow rates of feed volume advancement took significantly longer to regain birth weight [reported median difference 2 to 6 days] and to establish full enteral feeding [reported median difference 2 to 5 days].

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Current data do not provide evidence that slow advancement of enteral feed volumes reduces the risk of NEC in VLBW infants. Increasing the volume of enteral feeds at slow rather than faster rates results in several days delay in regaining birth weight and establishing full enteral feeds but the long term clinical importance of these effects is unclear. Further randomised controlled trials are needed to determine how the rate of daily increment in enteral feed volumes affects clinical outcomes in VLBW infants.