Neonatal stress responses to anesthesia and surgery.

Neonatal stress responses have been investigated only in recent years. Term neonates mount substantial hormonal and metabolic responses, which are distinct from those of adult patients. These responses can be altered significantly by the effects of prematurity, the effects of graded surgical stress, and the anesthetic techniques used during surgery. In addition, neonatal stress responses may have important implications for the clinical outcome following surgery in neonates.