Outcomes of early enteral feeding in very low birth weight infants: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Pediatr NeonatolMay 18, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchPediatrics
Amani N Alansari, Marwa Messaoud, Alaa Ahmed Elshanbary et al.
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In 30 seconds
This meta-analysis evaluated early enteral feeding in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants using data from 17 randomized controlled trials. The study found that early feeding (≤72 hours) did not significantly increase mortality or necrotizing enterocolitis risk, but was associated with a reduction in sepsis incidence (RR = 0.78) and a shorter time to full enteral feeding (MD = -2.72 days).
Key findings
- Early feeding did not significantly increase mortality (RR = 0.72; 95% CI: 0.51 to 1.01).
- There was a significant reduction in sepsis incidence (RR = 0.78; 95% CI: 0.61 to 0.98).
- Early feeding shortened the time to full enteral feeding by an average of 2.72 days (MD = -2.72 days; 95% CI: -5.08 to -0.36).
- No significant differences were found in the incidence of intraventricular hemorrhage or gastrointestinal bleeding.
Why it matters
Understanding the impact of early enteral feeding on VLBW infants is crucial for optimizing neonatal care. This study suggests that early feeding may not pose additional risks and could lead to improved feeding timelines and reduced sepsis rates.