Comparison of Early Versus Late Trophic Feeding

Comparison of Early Versus Late Trophic Feeding in Preterm Very Low Birth Weight Neonates at a Tertiary Care Hospital

Local data on the neonatal outcomes in early versus late trophic feeding in preterm very low birth weight neonates in terms of mean hospital stay is scarce. Therefore, the current study was planned with the objective of comparing the neonatal outcomes in early versus late trophic feeding in preterm very low birth weight neonates in terms of mean hospital stay.

Since preterm, very low birth weight births are common in society, an effective treatment modality is needed at the moment. Evaluating the length of hospital stay and occurrence of necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm very low birth weight neonates with respect to two approaches of trophic feeding in local settings will provide an insight into a better implementation of preventive strategies, resulting in reducing the hospital stays and the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis, and hence reducing the burden on the already meager resources.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Any gender
• Neonates aged 1-30 days
• Preterm very low birth weight neonates

Exclusion Criteria:

• Neonates transferred from other hospital and already started on antibiotics.
• Neonates with congenital anomalies, hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, central nervous system (CNS) impairment, neonatal sepsis, urinary tract infection, or one of twins or higher order multiples (on history and medical record).
• Non-consenting parents.