Clinical Spectrum and Outcomes of Neonatal Necrotizing Enterocolitis

Abstract

Background/aim: The objective of the study was analysis of risk factors associated with outcome of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in infants in a single-center study.

Patients and methods: All consecutive infants hospitalized for NEC over a period of 6 years were retrospectively analyzed for clinical course, infections, treatment and outcome.

Results: Out of 76 patients, surgical management was applied in 56 (53 exploratory laparotomy, three initial peritoneal drain placement) and in 20 there was only a conservative approach. Segmental intestinal resection was performed in 41 patients. Survival from NEC in our cohort was 79%. We found that independent adverse risk factors of outcome of newborns and infants with NEC were gut perforation, infection, abdominal wall erythema, and development of acute kidney injury.

Conclusion: We underline the value of both surgical and conservative approach with careful management in this cohort of patients.

Keywords: Newborns; infants; minimally invasive surgery; necrotizing enterocolitis.