Extending the Branches of Neonatal Neurocritical Care.

Abstract

Neonatal Neurocritical Care (NNCC) is transforming neonatal medicine through a brain-centered approach that reflects the complexity and rapid progression of early neurodevelopment. NNCC provides a comprehensive care model built on a foundation of real-time neuromonitoring, advanced neuroimaging, and multidisciplinary collaboration to deliver timely neurological support for newborns at risk of injury. This framework has evolved to bridge the full arc of early brain development, linking fetal evaluation, neonatal management, and post-discharge follow-up into a cohesive continuum. Recent technological advances in bedside monitoring, functional neuroimaging, machine learning, and rapid genomics are shifting NNCC toward a more proactive and personalized model of care. Emerging therapies are also expanding the clinical reach of NNCC, opening new frontiers for early intervention and neurorepair. As the field continues to advance, the central goal of NNCC remains to improve neurodevelopmental outcomes while ensuring widespread access to high-quality, family-centered neurological care. This review outlines the evolving landscape of NNCC and highlights its essential role in guiding brain-focused care from the earliest stages of development through childhood and beyond.