Classification of
NEC
Stage 1:
suspect NEC - signs of sepsis, feeding intolerance ± bright red blood per rectum
Stage 2:
Proven NEC- all of the above, pneumatosis, ± portal vein gas ± metabolic
acidosis ±
ascites
Stage 3: Advanced NEC- all of the above, clinical instability, definite
ascites ± pneumoperitoneum