Abstract
In order to determine whether GI priming of small volume enteral feeds (beginning at 2 and increasing to 18 Kcal/Kg/day) improves subsequent growth and tolerance of feedings, and increases trophic hormone levels, VLBW (<1250g) infants were randomized to NPO and GI Priming (PO) groups. Feedings were given in three phases: I - Priminp phase (days 3-14) the NPO group received TPN and the PO group received TPN plus GI priming; II - Accelerated phase (days 15-20) both groups increased enteral feedings daily to a maximum of 120 kcal/Kg/Day; III - Maintenance phase (days 21-30) both groups received full enteral feedings. Intakes were controlled to be equal during the first two phases.
Results suggest that GI priming will improve weight gain and tolerance to subsequent accelerated enteral intake. Even very small enteral intake will stimulate gastrin release, which is known to be trophic to small intestinal development.
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Neu, J., Meetze, W., Valentine, C. et al. EFFECTS OF GASTROINTESTINAL (GI) PRIMING PRIOR TO FULL ENTERAL NUTRITION IN VERY LOW BIRTH WEIGHT (VLBW) INFANTS. Pediatr Res 27, 543 (1990). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-199005000-00108
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-199005000-00108