A Comparison of Slow Infusion Intermittent Feeding versus Gravity Feeding in Preterm Infants: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: The transition to full enteral feeding is important for ensuring adequate growth in preterm infants. Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of two different intermittent feeding methods on the transition to full enteral feeding in preterm infants. Study design: A prospective, randomized controlled study was conducted in a neonatology and perinatology center. Subjects: Preterm infants with a gestational age between 24 + 0/7 and 31 + 6/7 were included in this study. They were divided into two groups: the SIF (slow infusion feeding) group and the IBF (intermittent bolus feeding) group. In the SIF group, feed volumes were administered over one hour using an infusion pump through an orogastric tube, with feeding occurring every three hours. The IBF group received enteral feeding using a gravity-based technique with a syringe through an orogastric tube, completed within 10 to 30 min. Outcome measures: The primary outcome was the achievement of full enteral feeding and the occurrence of feeding intolerance. Results: A total of 103 infants were enrolled in the study (50 in SIF and 53 in IBF). The time to achieve full enteral feeding did not differ significantly between the two groups (p = 0.20). The SIF group had significantly fewer occurrences in which gastric residual volume exceeded 50% (p = 0.01). Moreover, the SIF group had a significantly shorter duration of non-per-oral (NPO) status than the IBF group (p = 0.03). Conclusions: It is our contention that the use of the SIF method as an alternative feeding method is appropriate for infants with feeding intolerance and those at high risk of feeding intolerance.