Exploratory Laparotomy for Necrotizing Enterocolitis

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a severe inflammatory bowel disease that commonly affects premature infants. The pathogenesis is multifactorial and poorly understood, although certain risk factors have been identified. This disease, more commonly detected in premature infants with accompanying cardiac and pulmonary comorbid conditions, is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Multiorgan system homeostasis becomes critical for the pediatric anesthesiologist when approaching medical and surgical interventions for affected patients. This chapter focuses on the population at risk for developing necrotizing enterocolitis, medical and surgical management, providing anesthesia care in the neonatal intensive care unit, as well as perioperative considerations and complications.