A Comprehensive, Multidisciplinary Approach to the Evaluation of the Neonatal Airway

Purpose of Review This review identifies key distinctive features of the anatomy and physiology of the neonatal airway that contribute to pathology. Additionally, it highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to the evaluation of the airway in certain neonates with respiratory distress in the neonatal intensive care unit. Recent Findings Advancements in airway imaging aid in the evaluation of the neonatal airway. However, a comprehensive airway evaluation is often indicated. This requires a team of subspecialists including neonatologists, radiologists, pediatric otolaryngologists, pulmonologists, and anesthesiologists. Summary Disorders of the airway are a common challenge in the neonatal intensive care unit. For reasons that relate to size, anatomy, and physiology, key differences exist between the neonatal airway and that of the older child or adult. A comprehensive multidisciplinary approach to the neonate with suspected airway pathology can improve timely diagnosis, facilitate early intervention, and potentially help avoid unnecessary additional procedures in the neonatal intensive care unit.