Surgical Necrotizing Enterocolitis: Association between Surgical Indication, Timing, and Outcomes

This UK/Ireland prospective study of 133 infants with surgical NEC found that operating after failed medical management (vs. perforation) delayed surgery by 30 hours and increased risk of death or prolonged parenteral nutrition 4.5-fold at 28 days. Earlier surgical intervention in medically refractory cases may improve outcomes.