Risk factors for necrotizing enterocolitis in neonates: a systematic review of prognostic studies

BMC Pediatrics

Table 3 Summary of significant prognostic factors for NEC by high, moderate and low quality studies

Prognostic factor	High quality	Moderate quality	Low quality
Birth weight	1×	4×	-
Gestational age (weeks)	1×	3×	-
Sepsis	1×	2×	-
Ethnicity	1×	2×	-
Hypotension	1×	1×	-
Outborn	1×	1×	-
Assisted ventilation	-	3×	-
Cesarean section	-	2×	-
PROM	-	2×	-
Small for gestational age	-	2×	-
Surfactant	-	2×	-

The table shows the statistically significant prognostic factors reported in at least two studies. The quality of the studies was ranked high if ≥60 points (≥80% of the maximum score), moderate if 45–59 points (≥60% and <80% of the maximum score) and low if <45 points (<60% of maximum score) were given. Using the QUIPS tool
NEC necrotizing enterocolitis, PDA patent ductus arteriosus, PROM premature rupture of membranes, RDS respiratory distress syndrome, QUIPS quality in prognosis studies

ISSN: 1471-2431