The high risk neonate

A host of diseases plague the neonate - including apnea, polycythemia, congenital heart disease, nutritional disturbances, surgical disorders, fluid and electrolyte disturbances, and metabolic disturbances. However, the vast majority of pregnancies at risk can now be predicted before birth and are amenable to intervention. Such intervention has led to a decrease in perinatal morbidity and mortality. With cooperation between primary physicians and high-risk perinatal centers, the benefits of modern perinatal care should lead to a continual improvement in survival and quality of life for high-risk neonates and their families.