Neurodevelopmental Outcome in Very Preterm Infants Randomised to Receive Two Different Standardised, Concentrated...

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Medicine
• Pediatric Nutrition
• Neurodevelopmental Pediatrics

Background:

• Previous research indicated that the Standardised, Concentrated with Added Macronutrients Parenteral (SCAMP) nutrition regimen improved early head growth in very-preterm infants (VPIs).
• The SCAMP regimen involves increased parenteral protein and energy intake compared to standard care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate whether the SCAMP nutrition regimen, which enhances early head growth in VPIs, also improves neurodevelopmental outcomes.
• To assess the long-term neurodevelopmental effects of higher parenteral protein and energy administration in VPIs.

Main Methods:

• A double-blind, randomized controlled study involving very-preterm infants (VPIs).
• Infants were randomized to either the SCAMP nutrition regimen or a control regimen.
• Neurodevelopmental assessments using the Bayley III scale were conducted at 2-3.5 years of corrected gestational age.

Main Results:

• Bayley III assessments showed higher motor, cognitive, and language scores in the SCAMP intervention group compared to the control group.
• None of the observed differences in neurodevelopmental scores between the groups reached statistical significance.
• Nutrient intake and biochemical monitoring confirmed the SCAMP regimen's safety, with no increased incidence of hyperglycemia or electrolyte derangements.

Conclusions:

• While the SCAMP nutrition regimen did not lead to statistically significant improvements in neurodevelopmental outcomes for very-preterm infants, it was safely administered.
• Further research may be needed to explore optimal nutritional strategies for improving neurodevelopmental trajectories in VPIs.