Early extubation of neonates and young infants after cardiac surgery.

Surgical intervention for many patients born with congenital heart disease has become routine in the first few months of life. Early extubation after cardiac surgery in neonates and young infants is feasible for many of these patients. This approach simplifies postoperative management, eliminates some of the complications related to postoperative care, shortens intensive care and hospital stays, reduces cost, and provides for a more efficient and positive convalescence for these young patients and their families. Management protocols for early extubation are described, and the outcomes reviewed. Copyright 1998 by W.B. Saunders Company