Preoperative enteral nutrition in neonates with congenital heart disease: A review of literature

Abstract

Congenital heart disease in neonates can pose significant nutritional challenges due to increased metabolic demands and necessary interventions. The use of preoperative enteral nutrition aims to address these deficits, improving growth and recovery. This review assesses preoperative enteral nutrition's efficacy and safety in neonates with congenital heart disease, whilst also identifying potential barriers to implementation of preoperative enteral nutrition, focusing on growth, recovery, and complications like necrotizing enterocolitis. While preoperative enteral nutrition can improve outcomes, concerns about necrotizing enterocolitis particularly in high-risk neonates, limit its use. Recent studies suggest management with human milk, can mitigate necrotizing enterocolitis risk as well as support intestinal maturation, improve immunity and improve growth. However, inconsistent feeding protocols across institutions create variability. Standardized protocols are needed to optimize nutritional outcomes. Further research is crucial to develop evidence-based guidelines for preoperative enteral nutrition, enhancing both immediate and long-term health for neonates with congenital heart disease.