The Influence of Feeding Source on the Gut Microbiome and Time to Full Feeds in Neonates With Congenital Gastrointestinal Pathologies

The Influence of Feeding Source on the Gut Microbiome and Time to Full Feeds in Neonates With Congenital Gastrointestinal Pathologies

This study explores the use of an exclusive human milk diet versus standard feeding practices to compare the influence on feeding outcomes and the gut bacteria in infants with intestinal differences.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Infants with gastroschisis, giant omphalocele, intestinal atresia, mid-gut volvulus, hirschsprungs disease.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Infant has already been on feeds
2. Infants <34 weeks gestation
3. Parents with contraindications to providing milk (i.e. drug use-cocaine, fentanyl, meth BUT oxy/suboxone/marijuana OK)
4. Complicated gastroschisis
5. Short gut syndrome
6. Additional congenital anomalies that affect ability to tolerate milk (i.e. cyanotic congenital heart disease BUT kidney disease ok)