NICU infants who require a feeding gastrostomy for discharge

Study of 117 NICU infants (2015-2016) found that premature infants born <30 weeks gestation are at highest risk for requiring gastrostomy tube placement due to prematurity-related feeding difficulties. These infants were discharged significantly later (49 vs 36 weeks postmenstrual age) and at higher weights (5 vs 2.3 kg) compared to premature infants who achieved full oral feeds.