Comparing feeding methods in preterm infants on non-invasive ventilation

To Determine the Best Feeding Practice in Preterm Infants on Non-invasive Ventilation.

Not applicable Interventional Cook County Health · NCT05824377

This study is testing whether continuous or intermittent feeding helps preterm infants on breathing support reach full feeding amounts faster.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment46 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorCook County Health Government
Locations1 site (Chicago, Illinois)
Trial IDNCT05824377 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of continuous versus bolus feeding methods in preterm infants receiving non-invasive respiratory support. Preterm infants aged 24-34 weeks will be randomly assigned to either continuous nasogastric feeding or intermittent bolus feeding. The goal is to determine which feeding method allows infants to reach full feeds more quickly. Parents will provide consent, and the study will be conducted in a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are preterm infants between 24-34 weeks of gestation who are on non-invasive ventilation and currently receiving minimal feeding.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than 34 weeks gestation or on invasive ventilation will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could optimize feeding practices for preterm infants, potentially improving their growth and recovery.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have explored feeding methods in preterm infants, but this specific comparison of continuous versus bolus feeding in the context of non-invasive ventilation is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Preterm Infants 24- 34 weeks of gestation
2. On Non-invasive ventilation (NIPPV/CPAP/HFNC)
3. Nothing by mouth (NPO) or on trophic feeds (\<20 ml/kg/day) at the time of randomization.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Gestational Age \> 34 weeks
2. Infants on invasive ventilation or low flow nasal cannula and on feeding volume more than trophic feeds.
3. Major congenital anomalies.

Where this trial is running

Chicago, Illinois

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions PrematurityExtremeFeeding PatternsVentilator LungNewbornPreterm infantsFeeding methodsbolus feeds
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.