Children who are exposed to anaesthetics in early childhood may have an increased likelihood of developing learning difficulties.

A new study found that children who were given anaesthetic for surgery before the age of three were more likely to develop language impairments than children who were not given anaesthetic.

However, there was not enough evidence to determine whether the increased risk was a result of anaesthesia, surgery or the medical condition that required treatment.

Researchers said the study was not definitive and parents should not delay or avoid surgery if their child needs it.