Medium-chain Triglyceride Oil Massage on Growth in Preterm

The Effect of Medium-chain Triglyceride Oil Massage on Physical Growth in Preterm Infants Weighing Between 1500 and 2000 g: a Prospective Randomized Trial

Aim: To explore the effect of medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil massage on growth in preterm infants.

Methods: This randomized controlled trial was conducted in the newborn center of a regional hospital in Taiwan. Preterm infants weighing between 1500 and 2000 g were recruited and randomly assigned to three groups: the MCT oil massage, massage alone and no massage groups. The massages were given three times per day for 7 consecutive days. Weight, length and head circumference were measured in the three groups at birth and on study days 1 to 7.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. gestational age between 28 and 37 weeks;
2. weight between 1500 and 2000 g after enrollment;
3. medically stable condition;
4. ≥120 cc per day feeding.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. congenital anomalies;
2. skin disease;
3. requirement for mechanical ventilation;
4. requirement for O2 therapy;
5. presence of fracture.