Pediatric Surgery

Pediatric surgery is a specialized branch of medicine dedicated to the surgical care of infants, children, and adolescents. This field encompasses a wide range of surgical procedures designed to address a diverse array of congenital anomalies, acquired conditions, and traumatic injuries. Pediatric surgeons possess unique expertise in the delicate anatomy and specific needs of young patients, ensuring that they receive the highest level of surgical care. 

Diseases Treated By The Department

• Congenital Anomalies:

1. Congenital Heart Defects: Certain congenital heart defects may require surgical repair, such as atrial septal defects (ASD), ventricular septal defects (VSD), and Tetralogy of Fallot.
2. Abdominal Wall Defects: Conditions like gastroschisis and omphalocele, where abdominal organs are located outside the abdominal cavity, often require surgical correction.
3. Esophageal Atresia and Tracheoesophageal Fistula: Surgical repair is necessary to correct these congenital anomalies that affect the esophagus.
4. Anorectal Malformations: Surgical intervention is required to address congenital malformations of the anus and rectum.
5. Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: Surgery is needed to repair a hole or defect in the diaphragm, allowing abdominal organs to enter the chest cavity.

• Pediatric Tumors:

1. Neuroblastoma: Surgical removal of neuroblastomas, which are tumors that develop in nerve tissue, is often part of the treatment.
2. Wilms Tumor (Nephroblastoma): Surgery is a primary treatment for this kidney tumor seen in children.
3. Rhabdomyosarcoma: Surgical resection of soft tissue tumors, such as those in the muscles, may be necessary.
4. Hepatoblastoma: Surgical removal of liver tumors is a key component of treatment.
5. Neurofibromatosis-Related Tumors: Surgical management of tumors associated with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), including plexiform neurofibromas.

• Pediatric Urological Conditions:

1. Hypospadias: Surgical correction of a congenital condition where the urethral opening is not at the tip of the penis.
2. Undescended Testicles (Cryptorchidism): Surgery to reposition testicles into the scrotum.
3. Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR): Surgical options to correct urinary reflux when conservative measures are unsuccessful.
4. Hydronephrosis: Surgical management of kidney swelling due to urinary blockages or obstructions.

• Pediatric Gastrointestinal Conditions:

1. Appendicitis: Surgical removal of the inflamed appendix (appendectomy) is the standard treatment.
2. Intestinal Obstruction: Surgery may be required to remove obstructions in the gastrointestinal tract.
3. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Surgical options for severe cases not responding to medical management.
4. Short Bowel Syndrome: Surgical management for children with a portion of their small intestine removed due to various conditions.

• Pediatric Thoracic Conditions:

1. Pulmonary Conditions: Surgery for conditions like congenital lung cysts, pulmonary sequestration, or congenital lobar emphysema.
2. Pectus Excavatum and Pectus Carinatum: Surgical correction of chest wall deformities.

• Pediatric Vascular Anomalies:

1. Hemangiomas and Vascular Malformations: Surgical removal or other interventions for vascular growth or malformations.

• Pediatric Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery:

1. Surgical correction of congenital craniofacial anomalies such as cleft lip and palate.
2. Reconstruction following burns, traumatic injuries, or tumor resections.

• Pediatric Trauma:

1. Surgical intervention for injuries sustained in accidents, falls, or other traumatic events.
2. Fracture repairs, wound closures, and internal injuries may require surgery.

• Appendicostomy (Malone Procedure): Surgical creation of a stoma for antegrade enema administration in children with chronic constipation or fecal incontinence.

Common Procedures

• Neonatal Surgery: Pediatric surgeons provide surgical care for newborns with congenital anomalies or conditions that require immediate intervention, such as abdominal wall defects, intestinal obstructions, and congenital diaphragmatic hernias.
• Pediatric Oncologic Surgery: This involves the surgical treatment of childhood cancers, including procedures to remove tumors, lymph nodes, or affected organs. Common pediatric cancers include neuroblastoma, Wilms tumor, and various types of sarcomas.
• Pediatric Gastrointestinal Surgery: This encompasses surgeries related to the digestive system, including procedures for conditions like appendicitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
• Pediatric Urologic Surgery: Pediatric urologists, a specialized subset of pediatric surgeons, focus on surgical conditions of the urinary tract and reproductive organs, including surgeries for conditions like hypospadias, undescended testicles, and vesicoureteral reflux.
• Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery: This specialized field addresses congenital heart defects and acquired heart conditions in children, often requiring complex surgical interventions to repair or replace cardiac structures.
• Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery: While distinct from general orthopaedics, pediatric orthopaedic surgeons address musculoskeletal conditions unique to growing children, such as congenital limb deformities, scoliosis, and fractures.

Key Advantages

• Improved Quality of Life: Surgical interventions often lead to significant improvements in a child's health, allowing them to lead more active, fulfilling lives.
• Resolution of Congenital Anomalies: Many pediatric surgical procedures correct congenital conditions, enabling children to grow and develop without the limitations of their condition.
• Survival and Recovery from Trauma: Pediatric surgeons play a crucial role in saving lives and ensuring a smooth recovery for children who have experienced traumatic injuries.
• Prevention of Long-term Complications: Early surgical intervention can prevent or mitigate long-term complications associated with certain conditions, such as structural heart defects or orthopaedic abnormalities.
• Empowered Families: Through education, support, and clear communication, pediatric surgeons empower families to actively participate in their child's care and recovery.

Call 011-42888888 to book an appointment with a specialist at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute.