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Does the Use of Pacifier Affect Gastro-Esophageal Reflux in Preterm Infants?

Luigi Corvaglia1, Silvia Martini1, Maria Francesca Corrado1

  • 1Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, St. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.

The Journal of Pediatrics
|February 8, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Non-nutritive sucking using a pacifier did not affect gastro-esophageal reflux in preterm infants. This intervention may be safely used in preterm neonates experiencing reflux symptoms.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Gastroenterology
  • Pediatric Surgery

Background:

  • Gastro-esophageal reflux is common in preterm infants.
  • Non-nutritive sucking is a common intervention in neonatal care.
  • ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02023216.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effect of non-nutritive sucking on acid and nonacid gastro-esophageal reflux in preterm infants.

Main Methods:

  • A crossover study design was employed.
  • Thirty preterm infants participated in the study.
  • Esophageal pH-impedance monitoring was used to assess gastro-esophageal reflux.

Main Results:

  • Non-nutritive sucking, via pacifier use, demonstrated no significant impact on the occurrence of acid or nonacid gastro-esophageal reflux.
  • No adverse effects related to pacifier use were reported in the context of reflux.

Conclusions:

  • Non-nutritive sucking with a pacifier is a safe and potentially beneficial intervention for preterm neonates presenting with gastro-esophageal reflux symptoms.
  • Pacifier use can be considered a reasonable supportive measure in managing reflux in this population.
Abstract

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