Oromotor stimulation for transition from gavage to full oral feeding in preterm neonates: A Randomized controlled trial

To assess the effect of additional oromotor stimulation along with routine care on transition from gavage to full oral feeding in preterm neonates. 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). 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). Oromotor stimulation along with routine care reduces the duration of gavage feeding in preterm neonates.