Effects of Early Feeding Support on the Postoperative Weight Gain Status of Infants with Esophageal Atresia

Infants may lose their body resources after surgery due to inadequate nutrient intake and undergoing long periods of fasting after surgery for esophageal atresia, increases risk of several complications.
Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of early feeding support on the postoperative weight gain status of infants with esophageal atresia.
This randomized, controlled clinical trial was conducted on 36 infants with esophageal atresia (type C) selected 48 hours after surgery during July 2015-March 2016 at Dr. Sheikh Hospital of Mashhad, Iran. In the intervention group, detecting no lack of leakage on chest X-ray, feeding was initiated and the control group received routine feeding. Neonatal weight changes were measured daily using a digital scale (TANITA model) since the first day after the surgery and one month after discharge from the hospital. Data was analysed using SPSS version 16 by independent T-test and Chi-square.
Mean neonatal weight on admission was 2558.1±337.4 grams in the intervention group and 2547.6±856 grams in the control group (P=0.47). Results of independent T-test showed that daily weight gain before and after feeding was significantly higher in the intervention group compared to the control group (P=0.01). Moreover, weight gain one month after discharge had a significant difference between infants of the intervention and control groups (P=0.03).
Implications for Practice: According to the results of this study, early feeding support could improve the weight index of neonates with esophageal atresia. Considering the possible complications and long-term consequences of surgery, early initiation of feeding could be an appropriate remedial measure in infants with esophageal atresia.