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Paediatric anaesthesia and the developing brain

Concerns persist regarding the potential long-term effects of general anaesthesia on brain development in children. This narrative review summarises recent preclinical and clinical evidence (2019-25) and updates consensus messages. 

Citation:
Salaün JP, Frykholm P, Poirel N, ……. von Ungern-Sternberg BS, Saintilan C, et al. Paediatric anaesthesia and the developing brain. Lancet Child Adolesc Health. 2026;10. 

Keywords:
General anaesthesia; brain development; clinical studies; review

Abstract:
Concerns persist regarding the potential long-term effects of general anaesthesia on brain development in children. This narrative review summarises recent preclinical and clinical evidence (2019-25) and updates consensus messages.