We have the privilege of engaging with renowned Dr. Martin Blakely from Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Dr. Blakely, a passionate advocate for improving the outcomes of Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC), sheds light on how patient weight and illness severity factor into treatment decisions. He also presents valuable learnings from randomized trials that have evaluated the initial choice of laparotomy or drainage for NEC diagnosis. As an active board member of the NEC Society, Dr. Blakely shares his relentless pursuit for improved NEC outcomes through ground-breaking research.We unmask the importance of collaborative work in the realm of medical research. We unravel the significance of protocol development and the critical role it plays in advancing neonatology and pediatric surgery. The discussion highlights the essence of a multi-disciplinary approach involving various healthcare professionals like radiologists.  So, tune in for a riveting journey into the world of pediatric surgery and research. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!