Neonates

Neonates are the most physiologically distinct paediatric subgroup, exhibiting unique metabolic responses and substantially greater perioperative morbidity than infants, children, and adolescents. Neonates have higher susceptibility to both hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia under surgical stress. Dextrose-containing solutions are included in the review when administered as part of a perioperative fluid strategy, particularly in neonates and infants where glycaemic stability is a primary concern. Neonatal data will be analysed and reported as a distinct group throughout the review.