Relation of gastric distention to prostaglandin therapy in neonates.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the short-term gastric effects of prostaglandin therapy in neonates.


METHODS
The authors retrospectively reviewed the radiographs of nine neonates with congenital heart disease who received prostaglandins during the 1st week of life. Eighteen matched control infants (nine healthy neonates and nine infants with noncyanotic congenital heart disease) who did not receive prostaglandins were also evaluated.


RESULTS
Within 48 hours of initial prostaglandin therapy, persistent (>3 days) gastric distention was noted in four of nine infants. No infants developed feeding intolerance during the 1st week of life; two of nine infants (both with initial asymptomatic gastric distention) developed feeding intolerance with prolonged prostaglandin therapy. In all cases, gastric distention resolved with cessation of prostaglandins. The radiographs of the control infants were unremarkable (P < .01).


CONCLUSIONS
Persistent, asymptomatic gastric distention can be seen in neonates within 48 hours of initiation of prostaglandin therapy. Intervention is not warranted; this finding resolves with cessation of prostaglandins. Early gastric distention may be predictive of feeding intolerance in infants who receive prolonged prostaglandin therapy.
Kriss
V M
VM
Department of Diagnostic Radiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington 40536-0084, USA.
Desai
N S
NS
D000527:Alprostadil / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006330:Heart Defects, Congenital / Q000188:drug therapy; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D011859:Radiography; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013270:Stomach / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000187:drug effects*
D000527:Alprostadil