Toxic and protective effects of inhaled anaesthetics on the developing animal brain: Systematic review and update of recent experimental work

CONCLUSIONThe majority of studies have linked inhaled anaesthetics to toxic effects in the neonatal brain of rodents, piglets and primates. Only a few studies, however, could demonstrate long-lasting cognitive impairment. The results of inhalational anaesthetic-induced neuroprotection in perinatal hypoxic-ischaemic brain injury are a promising basis for more research in this field. In general, prospective clinical trials are needed to further differentiate the effects of inhaled anaesthetics on the immature brain.
Source: European Journal of Anaesthesiology - Category: Anesthesiology Tags: Pharmacology Source Type: research