Prevention of Necrotizing Enterocolitis in Very Low Birth Weight Preterm Infants with Probiotics: a Systematic Review and Metaanalysis

Document Type : Meta-Analysis

Authors

1 faculty of medicine kristen krida wacana university

2 Faculty of medicine Kristen Krida Wacana University

Abstract

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.
Objective: A meta-analysis was assessed by reviewing up to date Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) to investigate the effectiveness of probiotics to prevent NEC. 
Data Sources: The Pubmed, Proquest, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from 2009 to 2019.
Study selection: This meta-analysis was assessed according to PRISMA guidelines.
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.
Results:  The present research included nine studies. The incidence of NEC in the probiotic group were significantly lower 
(P = <0.00001, R = 0.48). In the subgroup analysis, the incidence of NEC was lower in the multiple strain group and  lactobacillus
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.
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.

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