AKSHATHA P,SANTOSH KUMAR KAMALAKANNAN,ASHA ARUN,HARISH SUDARSANAN ,KUMUTHA
DOI: https://doi.org/Background: Neonatal neurosurgical conditions, including myelomeningocele, Chiari II malformation, hydrocephalus, and occipital encephalocele, pose significant challenges requiring multidisciplinary management. Early diagnosis, surgical intervention, and postoperative care play a crucial role in improving outcomes.
Objective: This case series aims to present the clinical course, surgical management, and outcomes of four neonates diagnosed with congenital neurosurgical conditions, emphasizing key aspects of neonatal intensive care, infection control, and long-term fol`low-up.
Methods: The study included neonates with neurosurgical conditions admitted to the Newborn Care Unit (NICU ) at Saveetha Hospital Chennai between Decemeber 2022 and January 2025 , with a follow-up period of six months.
Four neonates with congenital anomalies, including cervical and lumbar myelomeningocele, hydrocephalus, Chiari II malformation, neonatal jaundice, and atretic occipital cephalocele, were admitted and managed with neurosurgical intervention, intensive neonatal care, and post-discharge follow-up. Clinical findings, imaging studies, surgical procedures, postoperative care, and outcomes were analyzed.
Results: All four neonates underwent surgical intervention, including myelomeningocele repair, VP shunt placement, and intensive care ,phototherapy for neonatal jaundice. Postoperative complications included sepsis, VP shunt malfunction, and CSF infections, requiring targeted antibiotic therapy and additional neurosurgical interventions. Despite initial complications, all neonates showed clinical improvement, stable growth, and appropriate neurological development at discharge. Long-term follow-up was planned for neurodevelopmental assessment, immunization, and surgical reassessment.
Conclusion: Early identification, prompt surgical management, and meticulous neonatal care are essential for optimizing outcomes in neonates with congenital neurosurgical conditions. A multidisciplinary approach involving neonatologists, neurosurgeons, pediatricians, and infection specialists is critical for reducing morbidity and improving long-term prognosis. This case series highlights the importance of comprehensive neonatal care and structured follow-up in managing complex neurosurgical conditions in infancy.
