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Neurodevelopmental outcomes after neonatal surgery

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Abstract

Children who require surgery in the newborn period are at risk for long-term neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI). There is growing evidence that surgery during this critical window of neurodevelopment gives rise to an increased risk of brain injury, predisposing to neurodevelopmental challenges including motor delays, learning disabilities, executive function impairments, and behavioral disorders. These impairments can have a significant impact on the quality of life of these children and their families. This review explores the current literature surrounding the effect of neonatal surgery on neurodevelopment, as well as the spectrum of proposed mechanisms that may impact neurodevelopmental outcomes. The goal is to identify modifiable risk factors and patients who may benefit from close neurodevelopmental follow-up and early referral to therapy.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Neonatology, Department of Paediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada

    Emily Lo & Brian T. Kalish

  2. Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada

    Brian T. Kalish

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Manuscript topic conceived by B.T.K. E.L. and B.T.K. wrote the manuscript. E.L. performed the literature review.

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Correspondence to Brian T. Kalish.

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Lo, E., Kalish, B.T. Neurodevelopmental outcomes after neonatal surgery. Pediatr Surg Int 39, 22 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00383-022-05285-x

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