Cardiogenic Necrotizing Enterocolitis: A Clinically Distinct Entity from Classical Necrotizing Enterocolitis

This systematic review demonstrates that necrotizing enterocolitis in infants with congenital heart defects (cardiogenic NEC) is clinically distinct from classical NEC, with higher incidence and mortality but lower surgical intervention rates. The study provides evidence-based support for treating cardiogenic NEC as a separate entity requiring specialized management protocols.