Our Summary

This research study looked at the brain development of very premature babies (born at or before 30 weeks of gestation) who either underwent or did not undergo surgery that required general anesthesia before they reached their expected birth date. The researchers used MRI scans to measure various aspects of the babies’ brains at their expected birth date and then evaluated their cognitive and motor skills at 2 years old. They found that premature babies who underwent surgery had less white matter (a type of brain tissue) and performed worse in cognitive and motor skills tests at 2 years old compared to those who did not have surgery. Babies who had longer exposure to surgery showed the greatest decrease in white matter and had the worst outcomes at 2 years old. These findings suggest that surgery requiring general anesthesia during the third trimester equivalent period can negatively affect a very premature baby’s brain development and performance later in life.

FAQs

  1. Does brain surgery that requires general anesthesia in very premature babies affect their brain development?
  2. How does the length of exposure to surgery affect the outcome in premature babies?
  3. What is the impact of brain surgery on cognitive and motor skills in babies born at or before 30 weeks of gestation?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about brain surgery is to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully. This can help minimize the risk of complications and promote a successful recovery. It is important to communicate openly with your healthcare team, ask any questions you may have, and follow through with any recommended rehabilitation or therapy programs to support your brain health and overall recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for brain surgery include those with:

  1. Brain tumors: Patients with brain tumors may require surgery to remove or reduce the size of the tumor.

  2. Epilepsy: Patients with epilepsy that does not respond to medication may be candidates for surgery to remove the area of the brain causing seizures.

  3. Traumatic brain injury: Patients with severe traumatic brain injuries may require surgery to relieve pressure on the brain or repair damaged tissue.

  4. Aneurysms: Patients with brain aneurysms that are at risk of rupturing may require surgery to prevent a potentially life-threatening bleed.

  5. Hydrocephalus: Patients with hydrocephalus, a condition where there is an excess of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, may require surgery to implant a shunt to drain the fluid.

  6. Parkinson’s disease: Patients with advanced Parkinson’s disease may be candidates for deep brain stimulation surgery to help control symptoms.

  7. Cerebral palsy: Patients with severe cerebral palsy that affects mobility and function may benefit from surgery to improve quality of life.

It is important to consult with a neurosurgeon to determine the best course of treatment for each individual patient.

Timeline

Before brain surgery:

  • Patient undergoes a series of consultations with neurosurgeons, radiologists, and other specialists to determine the need for surgery
  • Pre-operative tests and imaging studies are conducted to assess the brain and overall health of the patient
  • Patient may undergo pre-surgical preparations, such as fasting and medication adjustments
  • Day of surgery, patient is admitted to the hospital and prepared for the procedure under general anesthesia

After brain surgery:

  • Patient is closely monitored in the intensive care unit or recovery room immediately after surgery
  • Patient may experience symptoms such as headache, nausea, and fatigue in the days following surgery
  • Patient may require physical or occupational therapy to regain strength and function
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled with the neurosurgeon to monitor healing and address any complications
  • Patient may undergo post-operative imaging studies to assess the success of the surgery and monitor for any recurrence of the condition
  • Long-term rehabilitation and support may be necessary to help the patient recover fully and regain quality of life.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific type of brain surgery do I need and why is it necessary?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
  3. How will the surgery be performed and how long is the recovery process expected to take?
  4. Will I need to undergo general anesthesia for the surgery and what are the potential effects on my brain development?
  5. Are there any alternative treatment options to surgery that I should consider?
  6. What are the long-term effects of the surgery on my cognitive and motor skills?
  7. How often will I need follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  8. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after the surgery to support my brain health?
  9. Can you provide me with information or resources to learn more about the surgery and its potential effects on brain development?
  10. Are there any specific questions or concerns I should discuss with a neurologist or other specialist before proceeding with the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Walsh BH, Paul RA, Inder TE, Shimony JS, Smyser CD, Rogers CE. Journal: Pediatr Res. 2021 Apr;89(5):1200-1207. doi: 10.1038/s41390-020-1030-3. Epub 2020 Jun 23. PMID: 32575110