[Gastro-intestinal disorders in premature neonates receiving early enteral feeding (author's transl)]

Archives Francaises De Pediatrie
|February 1, 1982
PubMed

Insights

Early enteral feeding is safe for most premature infants, even those at risk for gastro-intestinal (G-I) disorders. Feeding should be carefully monitored, with temporary interruption advised for low birth weight infants experiencing asphyxia.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Gastroenterology
  • Pediatric Surgery

Context:

  • Gastro-intestinal (G-I) disorders are a concern in premature neonates.
  • Mesenteric ischemia symptoms were present in 95 studied premature infants.
  • Early feeding with tyndallized maternal milk was common in this cohort.

Purpose:

  • To investigate the incidence and risk factors of G-I disorders, including necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), in premature neonates.
  • To evaluate the safety and efficacy of early enteral feeding in at-risk premature infants.

Summary:

  • No definitive necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) was diagnosed in 95 premature neonates, though suspected in 4.2% and minor changes in 7.3%.
  • Low birth weight (<1,500 gm) and secondary apnea/asphyxia during mechanical ventilation were correlated with G-I disorders.
  • Early enteral feeding is recommended for high-risk prematures due to low severe G-I impairment incidence and feeding benefits, with careful symptom monitoring.

Impact:

  • Informs clinical practice regarding feeding strategies for premature infants.
  • Highlights the importance of monitoring G-I symptoms and considering asphyxia events.
  • Supports the continuation of early enteral feeding while managing risks in vulnerable neonates.

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