Neonatal Anesthesia with Emphasis on Newborn Physiology and Airway Management

The foundation of neonatal anesthesia lies in the understanding of neonatal physiology and the challenges of the neonatal transition from fetal physiology. A thorough preoperative assessment of the neonate is essential prior to any surgery, including a history, physical exam, and any necessary studies. The neonatal airway is notable for being smaller, more anterior, and more cephalad in comparison to adults and should be examined for features of a difficult airway. A comprehensive review of airway management, respiratory physiology, and cardiovascular physiology is imperative to the intraoperative and postoperative management of the neonate. The fundamentals of neonatal physiology establish the basis for successfully guiding a neonate through the perioperative period.