Short-term feeding outcomes in preterm twins with birthweight difference: a comparison between the larger and smaller infants

Abstract

Abstract Background:This study analyzed and compared the current status of short-term feeding outcomes in preterm twins with birthweight difference to provide an evidence-based medicine basis for optimizing enteral feeding in preterm twins. Methods:A retrospective and multi-center study was conducted in 11 provinces of China including 21 neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). The clinical data on preterm twins were collected, and grouped into the larger and smaller ones according to the birthweight was relatively higher or lower in each paired twin. Short -term feeding outcomes were analyzed and compared between groups. Results:A total of 434 pairs of twins were available for further analysis, with an average gestational age of 34.56 ±1.60 weeks and an average birth weight discordance of 12.60 ± 9.57%.As a whole,the median age at achieving total enteral feeding was 9 day after birth,and the average maximum volume of enteral feeding was as 132.07±26.43 ml/kg.d.No significant differences were found between the two groups in terms of feeding intolerance, necrotizing enterocolitis and median age at achieving total enteral feeding.Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed, compared to larger infants, smaller infants were more likely to achieve total enteral feeding(aOR=1.41,95%CI 1.01-1.97,P=0.044), have higher amount of enteral feeding(aOR=1.46,95%CI 1.01-2.11,P=0.046 ), and become extrauterine growth retardation of weight at discharge(aOR=4.51,95%CI 3.03-6.79,P=0.000), but not have increased growth retardation during hospitalization(P> 0.05). Conclusions:The current status of enteral feeding in preterm twins was not optimistic. Smaller ones seem to receive a better enteral nutrition supply compared with larger ones.