Birth weight recovery among very low birth weight infants surviving to discharge from Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg academic hospital, neonatal unit

Abstract

Background: The recommended growth velocity of very low birth weight (VLBW) infants is 15 g/kg/day. Several factors have been associated with poor postnatal weight gain. Objective: The aim of the present study is to provide current information on the postnatal growth of VLBW infants at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital. Methods: This is a retrospective longitudinal study of VLBW infants surviving to discharge from Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, Neonatal Unit from August 2013 to October 2013. Results: Sixty nine infants were included in the study. The mean growth velocity was 13.2 g/kg/day, the median weight loss was 7.69% and the median time for regaining birth weight was 16 days. Fifty one infants (73.9%) regained their birth weight at or before 21 days. There was a decrease in mean Z scores for weight from -0.32±1.25 at birth to -1.94±1.35 at discharge. A multiple linear regression showed a negative association between Z scores for weight at discharge and number of days nil per os without parenteral nutrition. Antenatal steroids were associated with poor growth velocity. There were no factors associated with regaining birth weight after 21 days on multiple logistic regression. Conclusion: This study shows a growth velocity in VLBW infants approaching recommended standards. The number of days without parenteral nutrition and use of antenatal steroids are associated with poor postnatal growth.