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Feeding guidelines improved post-intestinal surgery outcomes in neonates

SAN DIEGO — Data presented at the 2014 AAP National Conference and Exhibition indicate using standard feeding guidelines can improve overall outcomes for neonates following intestinal surgery by establishing consistency of care.

Kate B. Savoie, MD, of the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis, Tenn., and colleagues assessed outcomes among 132 neonates who underwent intestinal surgery. Sixty-four patients underwent surgery prior to the implementation of feeding guidelines, between January 2007 and April 2009; and 69 underwent surgery after implementation, between December 2009 and December 2011.

Gender, gestational age and birth weight were similar among pre- and post-implementation patients. Necrotizing enterocolitis was slightly more prevalent in the pre-implementation group. There were a greater number of patients in the post-implementation group who received breast milk and they had fewer intolerance episodes.

Neonates who underwent surgery after guidelines were implemented achieved full feeds more quickly than those in the pre-implementation group. The post-implementation group had a shorter transition from parenteral to enteral nutrition and were discharged earlier compared with those in the pre-implementation group. There were lower rates of parenteral nutrition associated liver disease among neonates in the post-implementation group.

“Utilization of standardized feeding guidelines can improve consistency of care, which can improve overall outcomes, such as time to full feeding, decreased transition from parenteral to enteral nutrition days and decreased complications associated with feeding failure,” the researchers wrote.

For more information:

Savoie KB. Abstract #25851. Presented at: 2014 AAP National Conference and Exhibition; Oct. 11-14, San Diego.

Disclosure: Infectious Diseases in Children could not confirm financial disclosures.