The Physiology, assessment, and treatment of neonatal pain

Studies have clearly shown that development of pain receptors starts as early as 20-weeks ’ gestation. Despite contrary belief, the human fetus develops a similar number of receptive pain fibers as seen in adults. These receptors’ maturation is based on response to sensory stimuli received after birth which makes the NICU a critical place for developing central nervous system’s pai n perception. In practice, the assessment of pain relies mostly on bedside staff. In this review we will discuss the various developing features of pain pathways in the neonatal brain and the modification of pain perception secondary to various interactions immediately after birth.
Source: Seminars in Fetal and Neonatal Medicine - Category: Perinatology & Neonatology Authors: Source Type: research