Total Fluid Administration and Weight Loss during the First 2 Weeks in Infants Randomized to Early Enteral Feeding...

Area of Science:

• Neonatology
• Pediatric Nutrition
• Neurodevelopmental Pediatrics

Background:

• Limited data exist on the impact of early feeding progression on fluid balance and neurodevelopment in extremely preterm infants (≤28 weeks).
• Understanding these effects is crucial for optimizing care in this vulnerable population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of early versus late initiation of trophic feeding on fluid balance and neurodevelopment in extremely preterm infants.

Main Methods:

• A randomized trial involving 60 extremely preterm infants was conducted.
• Infants were assigned to either an early feeding group (1 day) or a late feeding group (4 days) receiving trophic volumes (20-24 mL/kg/day).
• Fluid, electrolyte, and neurodevelopmental data were analyzed.

Main Results:

• The early feeding group received less parenteral fluids, had lower urine output, and experienced less excessive weight loss in the first 14 days.
• While cognitive scores and weight-for-age z-scores favored the early feeding group, these differences were not statistically significant.
• Short-term benefits in fluid balance and weight management were observed.

Conclusions:

• Early enteral feeding in extremely preterm infants is linked to reduced fluid administration and less weight loss within the first two weeks post-birth.
• These short-term physiological advantages suggest potential for long-term developmental benefits.
• Further research is warranted to confirm long-term neurodevelopmental impacts.