Oromotor Stimulation for Transition from Gavage to Full Oral Feeding in Preterm Neonates: A Randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE To assess the effect of additional oromotor stimulation along with routine care on transition from gavage to full oral feeding in preterm neonates. METHODS 51 neonates (28-34 weeks) randomized to receive either oromotor stimulation along with routine care (n=25, intervention), or routine care alone (n=26, control) (which included Kangaroo mother care and non-nutritive sucking). RESULTS Median (IQR) days to reach partial and full spoon feed were significantly lesser [5(3-9.5) vs 10(5-15) P=0.006; and 7(5-14.5) vs 12.5(7-21); P=0.03] in intervention than in control group, respectively. A significantly higher number (56%) in intervention group as compared to control group (31%) achieved partial direct breast feeding at discharge (P=0.01). CONCLUSION Oromotor stimulation along with routine care reduces the duration of gavage feeding in preterm neonates.