This week we delve into the world of cardiovascular surgery and general cardiology when we review a recent report from UVA on the topic of feeding around the time of neonatal heart surgery. Does preoperative oral feeding improve the chances for 'tube-free' enteral feeds at discharge after heart surgery in small infants? Why might oral feedings improve the chances of discharge oral feedings? How should clinicians think about the known benefits of early CHD surgery for some CHD lesions with the benefits of oral feedings? Dr. Aseel Dabbagh of Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City shares her insights into these and other questions. 

• DOI: 10.1007/s00246-024-03750-z