Early Colon Feeding in Santulli Procedure in Neonates: A Single-center Prospective Study

A BSTRACT Aim: The aim of this study was to assure a cost-effective method maintaining a progressive weight gain and providing early nutrition in the form of colon feed through a feeding tube in Santulli procedure to the neonate. Materials and Methods: An observational study over 7 years in a single center. Out of 52 patients who underwent Santulli procedure for congenital intestinal atresia or refractory meconium ileus, 12 were excluded and the remaining were divided into 2 groups; Case 1 included 20 patients with colon feeding tube; Case 2 included 20 patients without colon feeding tube. A control group of 20 patients was formed and compared with Case 1 and Case 2. Progressive weight gain was assessed in all the three groups. Human breast milk (HBM) was used for feeding in addition to oral rehydration solution replacement per grams to weight of stoma output and zinc 1 ml/kg, iron 1 ml, and medium chain triglyceride oil 1–2 mg/kg per day. Results: Statistical significance was found on day 4/5 ( p = 0.0174). Statistical differences were consistent from day 35 onward. All the group showed statistically highly significant values ( p < 0.0001) from Day 2 onwards. Case 2 showed lower mean values as compared to Case 1 and control while Case 1 maintained higher values than control. Institutional ethical committee approval was taken. Conclusion: Colon enteral feeding is a cost-effective method with the use of HBM, enhancing both early adaptation of neonatal intestine, promoting catch-up growth and immunity.