Specific features of physical development in extremely premature infants

• Main Authors: G. A. Alyamovskaya, E. S. Keshishian, E. S. Sakharova
• Format: Article
• Language: Russian
• Published: Ltd. “The National Academy of Pediatric Science and Innovation” 2016-03-01
• Series: Rossijskij Vestnik Perinatologii i Pediatrii
• Subjects: premature infants; low birthweight; height; feeding; discharge formula.
• Online Access: https://www.ped-perinatology.ru/jour/article/view/129

The literature review deals with the specilic features of physical development in extremely premature infants weighing less than 1500 g at birth. It describes the regularities of an increment in basic physical development parameters (weight, height, and head circumference) within the first year of life. Genetic factors, the specific features of a neonatal period, comorbidity, and different feeding types are shown to affect the increment rates of the physical development parameters. Emphasis is placed on the early initiation of enteral feeding and on the long-term use of fortified foods in low birthweight premature babies for the correction of energy deficiency resulting from preterm birth. The review shows that there is a relationship of the long-term outcomes of physical and psychomotor developments in low birthweight premature babies.