Abstract
Anesthesia for neonatal emergencies can be extremely challenging for the
anesthesiologist. Fortunately, with medical advancements, many neonatal emergencies
can be treated medically, reducing the need for emergency surgical intervention.
Nonetheless, care of sick neonates, especially those who are premature, requires
sufficient knowledge, experience, and vigilance. This chapter aims to provide a brief
overview of pertinent anatomy and physiology relevant to the care of neonates in
emergency cases. Some basic and overarching anesthetic considerations will be
addressed, including an essential setup. Finally, this chapter will highlight key aspects
of specific neonatal surgical emergencies, including gastrointestinal surgeries, airway
surgeries, and neurosurgery.
Keywords: Abdominal wall defect, Anatomy, Anesthesia, Choanal atresia, Congenital diaphragmatic hernia, Emergency surgery, Gastroschisis, Necrotizing enterocolitis, Neonatal, Omphalocele, Physiology, Subglottic stenosis, Tracheoesophageal fistula.