Low Splanchnic Oxygenation and Risk for Necrotizing Enterocolitis in Extremely Preterm Newborns

Prospective study of 45 extremely preterm infants (<28 weeks) found that low splanchnic oxygenation (SrSO2 <30%) measured by NIRS during the first week of life was associated with 5-fold increased risk of developing necrotizing enterocolitis. Findings suggest early NIRS monitoring may identify at-risk infants.