Could a simple saline enema save tiny preemies from deadly gut disease?
NCT ID NCT03631979
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested whether giving extremely preterm babies (born before 27 weeks) a gentle saline enema twice a day could help them reach full feeding sooner and prevent necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a severe gut infection. The trial planned to include 200 infants but was terminated early, so the findings are limited. The approach is simple and low-cost, but its safety and effectiveness remain unproven.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
normal saline (salt water) given as an enema
What this could lead to
If it works, this simple, low-cost procedure could help extremely preterm babies tolerate feeding sooner and reduce the risk of a life-threatening gut infection.
What could go wrong
The trial was terminated early, so results are limited. The procedure may cause discomfort or injury in such fragile infants, and benefits are not proven.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Neonatal intensiv care unit, 95F, Akademiska hospital
Uppsala, 75185, Sweden