Revolutionizing infant brain health through neuromonitoring

In the realm of pediatric care, one of the most pressing challenges is preventing brain injury in critically ill newborns and infants undergoing surgery. These injuries are often clinically silent until irreversible damage occurs. To address this, Children’s National Hospital has launched a groundbreaking Neuromonitoring Program within the Center for Prenatal, Neonatal, and Maternal Health Research (CPNMHR). This $10 million initiative, generously supported by a gift from the Zickler Family Foundation and from UAE partners, aims to revolutionize the detection and prevention of brain injuries at the earliest possible stages.

The Neuromonitoring Program stands out for its innovative multimodal approach, integrating state-of-the-art technologies that probe various dimensions of brain function and dysfunction. Combining cutting-edge methods to monitor cerebral perfusion, oxygenation and brain activity, the program brings new possibilities to neonatal and pediatric care.

Among its key technologies, the program utilizes advanced microvessel imaging (MVI), contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and ultrasound elastography to provide insights into blood flow and tissue properties. Additionally, near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and optics devices, including diffuse correlation spectroscopy and frequency domain spectroscopy, are employed to assess cerebral oxygenation. To capture real-time brain activity, high-density 128-lead EEG is used to monitor electrocortical function and connectivity. This is paired with mini-polysomnography devices to study sleep-wake patterns and diurnal rhythms. Together, these technologies enable the program to measure neurovascular coupling, combining NIRS and EEG to explore the intricate relationship between brain blood flow and neural activity.

These capabilities are further enhanced by the advanced MRI technology available at the CPNMHR, providing early markers of injury and allowing for rapid interventions to safeguard brain health.

As Children’s National moves forward in its mission to deliver improved care for infants, the Neuromonitoring Program represents a significant leap in protecting the developing brain. With the visionary support of our partners, this initiative embodies the future of pediatric neuroscience, creating hope for countless families.

This unprecedented collaboration is not only setting a new standard in neonatal care but also reinforcing Children’s National as a leader in the global effort to combat infant brain injuries before they reach the point of no return.