The perioperative nutritional care of neonates and infants

Abstract

The perioperative care of neonates and infants presents problems that differ greatly from those seen in older children and adults and has resulted, during the last few decades, in dramatically decreased morbidity and mortality rates in neonates and infants affected by congenital gastrointestinal malformations. Surgery-associated mortality in the neonate has declined from greater than 50% to less than 10%. Refined respiratory care, antibiotics and improved nutrition with a greater knowledge of the needs of the surgical patient have together improved the survival chances for surgical neonates and infants. This article reviews some important aspects of the perioperative care of the neonate and infant. Keywords: neonates, nutrition, postoperative care, surgery