NeuroNICU

What is the NeuroNICU?

Our NeuroNICU provides a neuroprotective environment to ensure the wellbeing and optimal developmental outcomes of all babies in our NICU at Stanford Medicine Children’s Health. Since the NeuroNICU was established in 2013, we have strengthened our ability to offer precision care for patients by supporting long-term neurodevelopmental monitoring. We think of each medical complication as something that can be modified, not just for the health of one organ system, but for the health of the entire baby now and in the future.

Multi-disciplinary, integrated care to help babies thrive

Led by Medical Director Sonia Bonifacio, MD, and Associate Medical Director Valerie Chock, MD, MS Epi, the NeuroNICU was built out of a growing need to help babies not only survive but thrive. Our NeuroNICU multidisciplinary team at SMCH includes representatives from Neurology, Nursing, Social Work, Rehabilitation Services, and Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics. We collaborate with our Nurture Program to understand how developmental care is affecting brain growth and create customized treatment plans. Common conditions we treat in the NeuroNICU include (and are not limited to):

  • Hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy

  • Seizures

  • Grade III/IV intraventricular hemorrhage

  • Hydrocephalus

  • Central nervous system infections and anomalies

  • Metabolic diseases

Leading the way in applying new technologies

SMCH is one of the only NICUs in the nation to offer near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) at every bedside, allowing for non-invasive, continuous monitoring of tissue oxygenation. Since 1991, Stanford University has been part of the NICHD Neonatal Research Network and our team has contributed to the evidence that proves the reliability and validity of treatments and technologies to care for the newborn brain. Clinicians in the U.S. and from around the world look to for guidance when they develop their own NeuroNICU programs or want to apply new technologies.

Read more about our Neuro NICU

Media

Dr. Bonifacio discusses the NeuroNICU on Telemundo (in Spanish)

Medical Director

Sonia Bonifacio, MD

For referring physicians with urgent requests, please contact the transfer center at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford: (650) 723-7342.