ABSTRACT
Introduction 95 Neuroembryology and development 95 Neuroanatomy 97
Neurophysiology 100 Neuropharmacology 103 References 105
A significant portion of central nervous system development occurs after birth during the first year of life, resulting in major anatomical, physiological and psychological changes. An awareness of neurological maturation is particularly import when caring for children with neurovascular dysfunction. In patients with neurological pathology the perilesional area is particularly at risk of ischaemia and an understanding of neurophysiology can significantly minimise or prevent neuronal damage. This chapter reviews the concepts needed to understand the anaesthetic management of the child with neurological disease.
