Neonatology at German Clinic Marbella
Specialized care for newborns
Neonatology is a separate specialty from obstetrics and pediatrics, responsible for the medical care of newborns. In particular, premature babies and sick infants require intensive medical care immediately after birth. At German Clinic Marbella, experienced neonatologists are available to provide the best possible care for newborns.
What diseases are treated in neonatology?
Neonatology treats numerous diseases and complications that can arise in the first days of a baby’s life. These include:
- Respiratory distress syndrome: Frequent in preterm infants, often requiring surfactant therapy and assisted ventilation.
- Neonatal jaundice: Treated with phototherapy to reduce elevated bilirubin levels in the blood.
- Infections: Because preemies’ immune systems are not fully developed, they are more vulnerable to bacterial and viral infections.
- Congenital heart disease: Early diagnosis and treatment are essential.
- Growth disorders: Some infants require specialized nutrition to support their development.
Prematurity and its frequency
A birth before the 37th week of gestation is considered a preterm birth. In Germany, prematurity occurs with a frequency of 8-10 %, and babies born before the 32nd week of gestation require more intensive care.
Length of stay in neonatology
The duration of treatment of a newborn in an intensive care unit depends on several factors, including birth weight, lung maturity and the baby’s general condition. In severe cases, the stay may extend for several weeks or even months, especially in extremely premature infants.
A crucial milestone for discharge is the achievement of stable body weight, the ability to ingest food autonomously and adequate unassisted respiratory function.
Medical examinations for newborns
To quickly and effectively assess the health status of a newborn, a variety of diagnostic procedures are used, including:
- Apgar test: Standardized assessment of vital signs immediately after birth.
- Blood tests: To detect infections, metabolic disorders and bilirubin levels.
- Ultrasounds: To evaluate the development of organs, especially the brain and heart.
- Pulse oximetry and blood gas analysis: To measure oxygen saturation and respiratory function.
When is neonatal care needed?
Treatment in neonatology is necessary immediately after birth when the newborn has health abnormalities or is born prematurely. Mothers with high-risk pregnancies can receive neonatology counseling before delivery to take the best possible precautions.
Therapeutic methods in neonatology
The care of premature infants and newborns is performed with the most advanced medical procedures:
- Ventilatory therapy (CPAP or mechanical ventilation) to support breathing.
- Incubator therapy to maintain a stable body temperature.
- Specialized nutrition, such as parenteral feeding or fortified breast milk.
- Surfactant therapy to promote lung maturation.
- Phototherapy for the treatment of neonatal jaundice.
Staff specialized in neonatology
Optimal care of newborns requires an interdisciplinary team of various specialists:
- Neonatologists: Physicians specializing in the treatment of premature babies and sick newborns.
- Pediatric nurses: Responsible for daily care and constant monitoring.
- Midwives: Assist in childbirth and the first phase of adaptation.
- Physical therapists: They assist in the motor development of premature infants.
- Social workers: Provide emotional and organizational support to parents.
Costs and financing of neonatal treatment
The treatment of newborns in an intensive care unit requires specialized equipment and highly trained personnel, which entails high costs. In many countries, these expenses are covered by public or private health insurance. In addition, highly specialized perinatal centers receive state funding.
Potential risks in neonatology
Despite advances in medicine, some risks in neonatology persist:
- Developmental delays in children born very preterm.
- Respiratory problems (such as bronchopulmonary dysplasia) due to assisted ventilation.
- Increased susceptibility to infections due to an immature immune system.
Conclusion
Neonatology plays a key role in the modern medical care of newborns. Thanks to advanced treatments and specialized care, the chances of survival and development of premature babies and sick newborns have increased significantly. At German Clinic Marbella, we offer competent and empathetic neonatal care to ensure the best start in life for our young patients.
