Feeding during transfusion and the risk of necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infants

Objective To evaluate the effect of withholding feeds during transfusion on transfusion associated acute gut injury (TRAGI). Study design Data were collected on 125 preterm infants before and after the practice of withholding feeds for 12-24 h during transfusion was instituted. Logistic regression was used to examine effects of withholding feeds on TRAGI rates. Results A total of 19 (15%) infants developed NEC; 6/19 (32%) had TRAGI. Postnatal hydrocortisone use was associated with TRAGI (OR 8.97; 95% CI 1.17-68.46, p = 0.034). There was no difference in NEC rates (15.8 vs. 14.7%) and the proportions (22.2 vs. 40%) of TRAGI in the two time periods before and after instituting the standardized feeding regimen and practice of holding feeds during transfusion. Conclusion No significant decrease was noted in the rates of TRAGI after feeds were withheld during transfusion. Further studies are warranted to explore the relationship between feeds during transfusion and NEC.