Our Summary

This research paper discusses the use of neuraxial anesthesia, which includes spinal and epidural anesthesia, in surgical procedures for newborn babies. Neuraxial anesthesia is now widely used because it offers many benefits and is extremely safe if done correctly. The article explores the advantages, potential risks, and uses of this type of anesthesia in newborns.

FAQs

  1. What are the benefits of using neuraxial anesthesia in neonates undergoing surgical procedures?
  2. What are the potential risks associated with neuraxial anesthesia in neonates?
  3. In what specific surgical applications is neuraxial anesthesia most commonly used for neonates?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about spinal surgery is to follow all pre-operative instructions closely, including any dietary restrictions, medication guidelines, and activity limitations. It is important to be well-prepared for surgery to ensure the best possible outcome and minimize the risk of complications. Additionally, it is important to communicate openly with your healthcare team about any concerns or questions you may have before and after the procedure.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for spinal surgery include those who have:

  1. Chronic back or neck pain that does not respond to conservative treatments such as physical therapy or medication
  2. Herniated discs or other spinal disc issues causing nerve compression and pain
  3. Spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal causing pressure on the spinal cord or nerves
  4. Scoliosis or other spinal deformities that are causing pain or affecting mobility
  5. Spinal fractures or injuries that are not healing properly
  6. Tumors or infections affecting the spine
  7. Degenerative disc disease causing severe pain and mobility issues.

Timeline

Before spinal surgery:

  • Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluation and testing to assess their overall health and readiness for surgery
  • Patient meets with their surgeon to discuss the procedure, risks, benefits, and potential outcomes
  • Patient may undergo physical therapy or other treatments to prepare for surgery
  • Patient may need to stop taking certain medications or adjust their diet in preparation for surgery

After spinal surgery:

  • Patient is monitored closely in the recovery room for any immediate complications
  • Patient may experience pain and discomfort in the days following surgery, which is managed with pain medication
  • Patient may need to stay in the hospital for a few days for monitoring and rehabilitation
  • Patient will need to follow a specific post-operative care plan, including physical therapy and restrictions on certain activities
  • Patient will have follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor their progress and address any concerns or complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific type of spinal surgery do I need and why?

  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this type of spinal surgery?

  3. How long is the recovery process expected to be after the surgery?

  4. What are the alternative treatment options to spinal surgery?

  5. What is the success rate of this type of spinal surgery for patients with similar conditions?

  6. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and what are the potential risks associated with it?

  7. How experienced is the surgical team in performing this type of spinal surgery?

  8. What can I do to prepare for the surgery and optimize my recovery afterwards?

  9. Are there any long-term implications or restrictions I should be aware of after undergoing spinal surgery?

  10. How will my pain be managed during the recovery process?

Reference

Authors: Whitaker EE, Williams RK. Journal: Clin Perinatol. 2019 Dec;46(4):731-743. doi: 10.1016/j.clp.2019.08.007. Epub 2019 Aug 15. PMID: 31653305