Our Summary

This research looked at how non-cardiac surgery on newborns might affect their brain structure and development up to the age of two. The study focused on babies who needed surgery due to certain birth defects, such as a hernia in the diaphragm, an issue with the esophagus, or a problem with the front wall of the abdomen.

These infants were compared with a similarly matched group of babies who did not need surgery. The researchers used MRI scans to look at the babies’ brains about a month and a half after birth, checking for how mature the brain was, any injuries, the size of the brain, and other measurements. They also used a specific set of scales to assess the babies’ development when they turned two.

The results showed that the babies who had surgery were more likely to have delayed brain development and abnormalities in the white matter of their brains - the part which carries nerve impulses. They also had smaller brain sizes and larger fluid-filled spaces within the brain than the control group. Furthermore, these babies scored lower in language and motor skills at two years old.

In conclusion, the study suggests that newborns who have non-cardiac surgery might have smaller brains with more abnormalities, and might also experience developmental issues by the age of two. The researchers recommend further studies to determine when these brain injuries might occur.

FAQs

  1. What was the main focus of this research on newborns and brain development?
  2. What differences were found in the brains of babies who had surgery compared to those who did not?
  3. What are the potential implications for newborns who undergo non-cardiac surgery according to this study?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about brain surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and recovery. This may include taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and following any restrictions on activities. It is also important to communicate any concerning symptoms or changes in health to your healthcare provider promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for brain surgery include those with brain tumors, epilepsy that cannot be controlled with medication, traumatic brain injuries, vascular malformations in the brain, hydrocephalus, Parkinson’s disease, and certain movement disorders. Additionally, patients with conditions such as Chiari malformations, trigeminal neuralgia, and certain types of headaches may also be recommended for brain surgery. Each patient’s case is unique, and the decision to recommend brain surgery is made based on a thorough evaluation of their specific condition and medical history.

Timeline

Before brain surgery:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with a medical condition that requires brain surgery.
  2. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and evaluation to assess their overall health and suitability for surgery.
  3. Patient discusses the risks and benefits of surgery with their healthcare team and makes a decision to proceed with the procedure.
  4. Patient undergoes anesthesia and the surgical team performs the brain surgery.
  5. Patient is monitored closely in the immediate post-operative period for any complications or side effects.

After brain surgery:

  1. Patient is transferred to a recovery area where they are closely monitored by healthcare providers.
  2. Patient may experience pain, swelling, and discomfort at the surgical site.
  3. Patient may require medication for pain management and to prevent infection.
  4. Patient begins the process of rehabilitation and physical therapy to regain strength and function.
  5. Patient follows up with their healthcare team for post-operative appointments and monitoring of their recovery progress.
  6. Patient may experience changes in cognitive function, memory, and emotional well-being as they recover from brain surgery.
  7. Patient continues to follow up with their healthcare team for long-term monitoring and management of any ongoing symptoms or complications related to the surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific risks are associated with the brain surgery I will be undergoing?
  2. How will the surgery affect my brain structure and development in the long term?
  3. What are the potential complications that could arise during or after the surgery?
  4. How will my brain be monitored during the surgery to ensure its safety?
  5. What is the expected recovery process after the surgery, and how will it impact my brain function?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before proceeding with brain surgery?
  7. How often will I need follow-up appointments to monitor my brain health post-surgery?
  8. What can I do to help support my brain’s recovery and minimize any potential long-term effects of the surgery?
  9. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or therapies I should consider to optimize my brain health following the surgery?
  10. How will the surgery impact my overall quality of life and cognitive function in the future?

Reference

Authors: Moran MM, Gunn-Charlton JK, Walsh JM, Cheong JLY, Anderson PJ, Doyle LW, Greaves S, Hunt RW. Journal: J Pediatr. 2019 Sep;212:93-101.e2. doi: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2019.05.050. Epub 2019 Jun 22. PMID: 31235385