Evaluation of Gastric Residuals and Feedings Progression

Evaluation of Gastric Residuals in Preterm Newborns: What Impact Does It Have on Feedings Progression?

This study evaluates the utility of measuring gastric residuals in premature infants born between 26+0 and 33+6 weeks and to determine if its routine use is related with a delay in feedings advancement in this babies compared with no measurement.

The evaluation of gastric residuals as a measure of enteral tolerance in term and especially preterm newborns is a widely used practice in different centers worldwide. However, until now, it continues to be a controversial practice, since its real usefulness is not clear.

Our study proposes to evaluate and compare two groups of preterm newborns born between 26 + 0/7 and 33 + 6/7 weeks, randomized to measure or not measure gastric residuals and determine if this practice delays the full feeding achievement.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Preterm infants born between 26+0 to 33+6 weeks post-menstrual gestational age.
• Enteral feeds starting during the first week of life.
• Signed informed consent from parents or guardians.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Perinatal asphyxia
• Sepsis and hemodynamic instability
• Major congenital malformations
• Surgical requirement during the first week of life
• Hemodynamic instability and vasoactive drugs requirement
• Moderate or severe respiratory failure with Oxygenation Index > 8