Feeding outcomes of preterm infants discharged with feeding tubes.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate feeding outcomes in preterm infants discharged with feeding tubes (FT).

STUDY

DESIGN

Retrospective study comparing infants ≤30 weeks gestational age discharged with a nasogastric tube (NGT) or surgically placed feeding tube (spFT) from 2012-2020. The primary outcome was feeding status at 12 months corrected age, defined as full oral feeds (FOF) or feeding tube dependence (FTD) if ongoing FT use.

RESULTS

217 infants were included: 130 discharged with an NGT (60%), 87 with spFT (40%). More NGT infants achieved FOF (NGT = 76%, spFT=24%, p < 0.001). FTD was associated with small for gestational age (aOR= 2.75, p = 0.034), severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia (aOR= 2.36, p = 0.029), and continuous feeds (aOR= 4.06, p < 0.001). Increased oral intake at discharge decreased FTD odds (aOR=0.74, p = 0.010). Infants with spFT had higher healthcare utilization for FT complications (spFT=60%, NGT = 19%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings can guide FT selection and optimize follow-up for infants at risk of FTD.