Best evidence narrative review for meconium ileus and necrotizing enterocolitis: conditions still not critically appraised for use of laparoscopic surgery

Meconium ileus and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) are two significant neonatal gastrointestinal conditions that continue to challenge pediatric surgeons and neonatologists. Laparoscopic surgery has created a revolution in many areas of surgical practice; however, its role in the management of these conditions remains limited. This present narrative review investigates the best available evidence on the use of laparoscopic surgery in the treatment of meconium ileus and NEC, exploring the reasons why these conditions are still predominantly managed through traditional open surgery.