Modifiable Risk Factors in Necrotizing Enterocolitis

Abstract

Multicenter groups have reported reductions in the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) among preterm infants over the past 2 decades. These large-scale prevalence studies have coincided with reports from multicenter consortia and single centers of modifications in practice using quality-improvement techniques aimed at either reducing NEC risk specifically or reducing risk of mortality and multiple morbidities associated with extreme prematurity. The modifications in practice have been based on mechanistic studies, epidemiologic association data, and clinical trials. Recent reports from centers modifying practice to reduce NEC are reviewed and select modified/modifiable practices discussed.

Keywords: Antacids; Antibiotics; Breastfeeding; Human milk; Necrotizing enterocolitis; Quality improvement; Transfusions.