Transpyloric feeding in gastroesophageal-reflux-associated apnea in premature infants.
OBJECTIVE
The aetiological role of gastroesophageal reflux in apnea of prematurity is controversial. We hypothesized that transpyloric feeds, which decreases reflux and aspiration, will not be associated with decrease in reflux-related apnea.


METHODS
The shows retrospective chart review of 41 premature babies on transpyloric feeds. Fifteen infants meeting the inclusion criteria of apnea of prematurity and clinical evidence of gastroesophageal reflux were included. Primary data points were number of apneas before and after transpyloric feeds. t-statistics was used for analysis.


RESULTS
Twelve of the 15 babies showed significant improvement on transpyloric feeds (p <. 005). The nonresponders were identified within 48 h. After discontinuation of transpyloric feeds, 2 responders underwent antireflux surgery and 9 were discharged without further intervention. No transpyloric-tube-related complication was documented.


CONCLUSIONS
Transpyloric feeds may be useful for diagnosis and management of suspected gastroesophageal-reflux-associated apnea in a selected group of infants.
Misra
Sudipta
S
Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, Children's Hospital of Illinois at OSF St. Francis Hospital, Peoria, Illinois, USA. smisra@pol.net
Macwan
Kamlesh
K
Albert
Viola
V
D004750:Enteral Nutrition; D005260:Female; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000150:complications* / Q000503:physiopathology; D005865:Gestational Age; D006801:Humans; D007225:Infant Food; D007227:Infant Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; D007230:Infant, Low Birth Weight; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature; D007441:Intubation, Gastrointestinal; D008297:Male; D018529:Nutritional Support; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors; D012891:Sleep Apnea Syndromes / Q000209:etiology*