Table 1 Baseline characteristics

Male gender (%)

17 (42 %)

Gestational age, wk (range)

27.6 (25–30)

Birth weight, g (range)

820 (430–990)

Caesarean section (%)

27 (66 %)

 - Infection/spontaneous contractions

5 (19 %)

 - Placental insufficiency

22 (81 %)

NEC development (maximal Bell’s stage)

6 (15 %)

Mortality before discharge (%)

8 (20 %)

Cause of death (%)

NEC

4 (50 %)

Respiratory failure

4 (50 %)