Development and Implementation of an Earlier Refeeding after Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) Guideline for Non-Surgical NEC

Abstract

Background: For infants with NEC treated non-surgically, there is no consensus for when to re-initiate enteral feeds after NEC. In a previous meta-analysis, earlier refeeding (4-7 days after diagnosis of NEC) suggested a decreased incidence of the combined adverse outcome (NEC recurrence or stricture) and possible other benefits. Based on this analysis, we implemented a standardized guideline for non-surgical NEC through a consensus survey of key stakeholders involved in the decision to start refeeding at our institution. We aimed to implement and monitor a multidisciplinary clinical consensus guideline to …