Evaluation of Epidural Anesthesia on Neonates Undergoing Abdominal or Thoracic Surgery
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Description
Epidural analgesia use is common in adult and pediatric patients, but there is limited use in the neonatal world due to inexperience among neonatologists and pediatric anesthesiologists. Epidural analgesia can reduce postoperative opioid use and improve recovery in adults and children, yet data on neonates is limited1. Neonates endure 7.5 to 17.3 painful procedures daily, altering pain responses and potentially having long-term neurocognitive effects due to the developing brain2,3. Opioid use is common in neonates; however, neurotoxic effects and respiratory depression highlight a need for alternatives4. In 2020, the HDVCH perioperative committee implemented a protocol for epidural analgesia in postoperative neonates undergoing major thoracic and abdominal surgery to improve pain management and reduce opioid side effects such as apnea, respiratory distress and delayed bowel function.
Publication Date
5-9-2025
Disciplines
Pediatrics
Recommended Citation
Skokic S, Ibadat S, Shupe A, Leffler L, Garvin J. Evaluation of epidural anesthesia on neonates undergoing abdominal or thoracic surgery. Presented at: Research Day Corewell Health West; 2025 May 9; Grand Rapids, MI.
Comments
2025 Research Day Corewell Health West, Grand Rapids, MI, May 9, 2025. Abstract 1855