ABSTRACT
Electrographic and polygraphic recordings of newborns and infants have been
performed for over half a century (1). Pioneering studies by multiple researchers
worldwide offer neurophysiologic information concerning the developing central
nervous system (2-9). Earlier investigations predated the creation of the modern
neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). However, these seminal works described for
the first time electrographic patterns and other physiologic behaviors that define
rudimentary state of the preterm neonate, and state maturation with increasing
postmenstrual ages (PMAs) to term. Given the higher rate of neonatal mortality,
particularly in the premature infant, the clinical neurophysiologist had a more
limited consultative role in the neurologic care of the sick neonate.With the creation
of the modern-day tertiary care NICU, more sophisticated medical care now
includes technological advances in physiologic recordings at bedside. Currently, the
neonatal neurologist has a more interactive role as a neurointensive care consultant,
combining clinical examination assessments with interpretations of neuro-
physiologic and neuroimaging studies for the dual purpose of diagnostic and
prognostic input for the neonatal intensivist.
