Simulated amniotic fluid-like solution given enterally to neonates after obstructive bowel surgeries: A randomized...

Area of Science:

• Neonatal surgery
• Gastrointestinal tract development
• Parenteral nutrition

Background:

• Withholding postoperative feeding is standard for neonates undergoing gastrointestinal tract (GIT) surgery, leading to prolonged parenteral nutrition, intestinal atrophy, and feeding intolerance.
• Amniotic fluid is crucial for fetal gut maturation; this study explored its potential role in postoperative recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of enteral administration of a simulated amniotic fluid-like solution (SAFE) in improving feeding tolerance in neonates post-GIT surgery.
• To test the hypothesis that SAFE enhances gut recovery and reduces complications associated with delayed enteral feeding.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial involving 40 neonates undergoing GIT surgery.
• Participants were assigned to receive either SAFE or a placebo (distilled water) postoperatively until reaching 100 mL/kg/day enteral intake.

Main Results:

• The SAFE group demonstrated significantly earlier achievement of enteral feeding milestones (50, 100, 120, 150 mL/kg/day).
• Higher enteral caloric intake on day 7 and improved weight gain rates were observed in the SAFE group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

• Enteral administration of SAFE shows promise in improving postoperative feeding tolerance in neonates with congenital obstructive bowel abnormalities.
• SAFE may enhance enteral caloric intake and promote better weight gain, potentially offering an alternative to prolonged parenteral nutrition.