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