Techniques of enteral feeding in the newborn.

Among techniques of enteral feeding, gastric bolus feeding still appears to be the method of choice for most newborn babies because it is both practical and inexpensive. Unstable preterm infants and those with severe respiratory diseases or with delayed gastric emptying time may not tolerate intermittent gastric feedings and may benefit from continuous gastric feedings. Transpyloric feedings do not seem to offer any advantage over continuous gastric feedings and should be reserved for infants at risk of aspiration, such as those with gastroesophageal reflux or delayed gastric emptying. Early low-volume feedings appear beneficial and are not associated with increased morbidity. Once enteral feedings are established, daily increments of 10-20 ml/kg appear to be safe and not associated with an increased risk of necrotizing enterocolitis.