Effects of Anesthesia and Surgery on the Morphologic and Functional Development of the Premature Neonatal Brain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

ABSTRACT: Background: The percentage of preterm infants requiring surgery before 44 weeks of postmenstrual age (PMA) varies between 19% and 36%. The potential impact of general anesthesia on the vulnerable developing brain of preterm infants remains unknown. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis on the impact of general anesthesia on brain integrity and neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm infants undergoing surgery before 44 weeks PMA was conducted. Studies were identified via a PubMed, EMBASE (Ovid), and Cochrane CENTRAL search conducted from inception until 8 March 2023, following PRISMA guidelines. Brain abnormality was assessed using MRI-based brain volume and abnormality scores. Neurodevelopment was evaluated through Bayley Infant and Toddler Development (BSID) or Wech

SUBMITTER: Heisel AGU 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11818576 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature