Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences International Journal of Medical Reviews 2345-525X 9 1 2022 03 01 Prevention of Necrotizing Enterocolitis in Very Low Birth Weight Preterm Infants with Probiotics: a Systematic Review and Metaanalysis 201 206 147110 10.30491/ijmr.2022.147110 EN Bella Kurnia faculty of medicine kristen krida wacana university Richardo Rusli Faculty of medicine Kristen Krida Wacana University Journal Article 2019 07 31 Background:  Some studies have shown that probiotics reduce the incidence of Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and sepsis; while other studies have not shown a significant difference of NEC and sepsis incidence. There are still no protocols or guidelines for the use of routine probiotics in Very Low Birth Weight (VLBW) preterm infants.<br />Objective: A meta-analysis was assessed by reviewing up to date Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) to investigate the effectiveness of probiotics to prevent NEC. <br />Data Sources: The Pubmed, Proquest, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from 2009 to 2019.<br />Study selection: This meta-analysis was assessed according to PRISMA guidelines.<br />Data extraction:  The inclusion criteria included RCTs of probiotics for  very low birth weight preterm babies; full text English articles; and those manuscripts published within the year of 2009 to 2019.<br />Results:  The present research included nine studies. The incidence of NEC in the probiotic group were significantly lower <br />(P = <0.00001, R = 0.48). In the subgroup analysis, the incidence of NEC was lower in the multiple strain group and  lactobacillus<br />group with P = 0.0004 and 0.006 respectively. The incidence of sepsis was lower in the probiotic group with  P = 0.02; and the incidence of all-cause mortality was lower in the probiotic group with P = 0.02.<br />Conclusion:  According to findings it can be stated that it is beneficial to use multiple strain probiotics and  lactobacillus  strain probiotics to prevent NEC in VLBW preterm babies. https://www.ijmedrev.com/article_147110_0f6dbaa6c62f9c4980ad34c881c9fb49.pdf