Neurodevelopmental Outcomes after Neonatal Mechanical Ventilation

Abstract

urvival of preterm babies has increased worldwide, with a concomitant decrease in severe neonatal morbidity. However, the risk of neurodevelopmental and behavioral disabilities remains high in children and in adults who were born preterm. Developmental delay rather than survival is now recognized as the main problem in children born preterm. Early identification of children at risk of later developmental difficulties may increase the access to formal evaluation and subsequent early intervention, potentially influencing the course of otherwise persistent difficulties.