International Journal of Medical Reviews

International Journal of Medical Reviews

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.
Keywords

Volume 9, Issue 1
Winter 2022
Pages 201-206

  • Receive Date 31 July 2019
  • Accept Date 20 October 2019