Nasoduodenal versus nasogastric feeding in the very low birthweight infant
Caillie, M.V.; Powell, G.K.
Pediatrics 56(6): 1065-1072
1975
ISSN/ISBN: 0031-4005 PMID: 812052 Document Number: 88193
Eleven infants with birthweights less than 1300 g and gestational ages of 26 to 36 weeks were randomly allocated to the nasogastric or nasoduodenal feeding group. Each infant was given the same commercial formula (Enfamil) infused at constant rate, which was adjusted as quickly as possible to achieve an energy intake of at least 120 kcal/kg daily. Fluid balance was maintained with glucose by vein until daily enteral fluid intake reached 80 to 100 ml/kg. The feed intake, weight gain and incidence of complications in the groups were compared. All infants gained weight satisfactorily relative to traditional standards, but the average daily gain and energy intake of the nasoduodenal group were higher than those of the nasogastric group, and the incidence of complications was lower. There was no aspiration associated with tubes placed in the duodenum, whereas there were 2 infants with aspiration pneumonia from tubes inserted in the stomach. The siting of the tip of the tube in the duodenum avoided complications associated with its presence in the jejunum. The benefits of nasoduodenal feeding were particularly evident during the first 2 weeks of life, and a daily energy intake of 120 kcal/kg could be reached within 2 to 3 days, compared with 7 days for the nasogastric method.