Risk Factors for Postnatal Growth Faltering and Undernutrition at Discharge in Very Preterm Infants: A Retrospective Study Applying the ESPGHAN Consensus Definitions

Nearly half of very preterm infants experience significant growth impairment before discharge. By assessing the dynamic process of GF and the static endpoint of UN, we identified distinct clinical trajectories. Standardized ESPGHAN criteria allow for the identification of high-risk "phenotypes"-particularly those with GR at birth or severe neonatal morbidity-enabling more targeted and intensive nutritional management during the critical developmental window.