#334 - Neonatal Neurology - A Year in a Review (ft the Newborn Brain Society)

In this episode of The Incubator Podcast, Daphna is joined by Dr. Pia Wintermark and Dr. Eleanor Molloy for a deep dive into the most impactful neonatal neurology studies of the past year. The discussion begins with a critical look at therapeutic hypothermia for mild hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) and preterm infants, highlighting recent pilot trials that challenge the practice of expanding cooling beyond established guidelines. They dissect key findings from multicenter studies, examining safety, feasibility, and the unintended consequences of “therapeutic creep.”

The conversation then shifts to the importance of precise terminology and standardized data collection in neonatal encephalopathy research. Pia and Eleanor explain why clearer definitions, genetic testing, placental pathology, and harmonized registries are essential for improving outcomes and guiding future clinical trials.

Finally, the team explores new and emerging interventions, including the feasibility of intranasal human milk as a stem cell therapy and the potential neuroprotective role of caffeine in neonatal hypoxia-ischemia models.

This episode offers a concise but comprehensive look at what’s shaping neonatal neurocritical care—from refining existing therapies to exploring innovative approaches that could change practice in the years ahead.