Nasogastric Versus Orogastric Route of Feeding in Preterm (<32 Weeks) Neonates

Enteral feeding tubes in newborns are used for feeding preterm and low birth weight babies in neonatal intensive care units as they often do not suck effectively owing to lack of coordination between sucking, swallowing and breathing due to neurological immaturity and delayed gastric emptying.

The feeding tubes could be inserted by the nasogastric (NG) route or by the orogastric (OG) route. Both routes are used in different Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs). Both methods are associated with different adverse events.

Since newborn infants are obligate nose breathers, nasogastric tube (NGT) can lead to partial nasal obstruction which might increase airway resistance and work of breathing although they are easy to secure to the face than orally placed tubes. Orogastric tubes (OGT), on the other hand, may not lead to the potential risk of increased work of breathing associated with NGT but are more frequently malpositioned and can loop inside the mouth. Also there is increased possibility of apnea and bradycardia due to vagal stimulation.

Despite so many years of continuing debate, the evidence of superiority of one method over another is not proven. Very few studies have tried to look into this matter and there are no consensus guidelines. This study is being conducted to compare the rate and type of adverse events in OG versus NG feeds in preterm neonates ≤ 32 weeks and postmenstrual age (PMA) ≤ 36 weeks.

Preterm neonates born at ≤ 32 weeks with PMA≤ 36 weeks who require feeding tube as a route for enteral feeding once they are out of respiratory support ( i.e ventilation or CPAP) are eligible candidates. Feeding tube insertion episode (FTIE) is defined as episode of insertion of OG or NG tube. FTIE will be randomized into NG or OG routes. Primary outcome is frequency of desaturation and bradycardia in each group.