The findings in neonatal animal models have triggered a series of epidemiological studies focusing on long-term cognitive development in young children undergoing anesthesia and surgery. However, the opinions are divergent, which could be due to confound indications and the effect of comorbidities driven by the underlying disorder. In the light of potential adverse effects, the magnitude of this association or lack of it, may influence the decision of postponing surgery.
There is global concern regarding the effect of exposure to anesthesia and surgery during early life and the risk for later neurocognitive deficits and impaired school achievements. Exposure to commonly used anesthetics during critical time points in the neonatal period consistently leads to structural, functional, and later behavioral deficits in animals ranging from nematodes to primates. Anesthetic neurotoxicity…
