First, calm down! As a parent, it’s natural to feel anxious when you hear, “Your child needs surgery,”. But, remember, staying strong for your child is essential. Gaining knowledge about common pediatric surgeries can put you in a better position to make informed decisions.
This article walks you through types of pediatric surgeries and their procedures so you may feel more prepared and aware.
Keep reading to learn more and get the strength to help your child on this journey.
Different Types of Pediatric Surgeries
Appendectomy (Appendix Removal)
The appendix is a small pouch attached to the large intestine. Sometimes it becomes infected, which causes appendicitis. Whenever your child undergoes this condition, the common cure is usually the removal of the appendix. In this pediatric surgical procedure, the surgeon will make a small cut in your child’s abdomen to remove the appendix and then stitch the wound to close it.
Alternatively, surgeons also use laparoscopes for smaller cuts and fast recovery. After this surgery, your child may need to stay in the hospital for one or two days at most for observation and to confirm his or her condition.
Hydrocoele Repair
A hydrocoele happens when fluid builds up around a boy’s testicle and makes the scrotum (the bag that holds the testicles) swell. In many cases this problem clears up on its own, but if it doesn’t, surgery may be needed.
In this procedure, the surgeon will make a small cut in the scrotum or lower belly to drain the fluid and then stitch the wound. This is a quick surgery, and your child can usually go home the same day.
Hernia Repair (Herniorrhaphy and Hernioplasty)
A hernia occurs when part of the intestine or other tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. This causes a noticeable bump. This commonly happens in the groin area or near the belly button.
To fix a hernia, a surgeon gently pushes the bulging tissue back into place and stitches the muscle to close the gap. In some cases, a piece of surgical mesh is used to strengthen the area, especially if the hernia is large.
This type of surgery is known as Hernioplasty. The procedure is performed under anesthesia, so the child won’t feel any pain during the surgery. Afterward, your child needs to stay for a short observation before going home.
Pyloromyotomy for Pyloric Stenosis
Pyloric stenosis is a blockage between the stomach and small intestine. This blockage makes it hard for food to pass through. It can cause vomiting, malnutrition, and dehydration in babies.
A pyloromyotomy is a surgery that fixes pyloric stenosis. During this surgery, the surgeon cuts the thick outer muscle of the pylorus but keeps the inner layers then cuts the thick muscle around the opening but leaves the inner layers alone. This creates a path for food to pass through.
This surgery can be done in two ways: open surgery or laparoscopic surgery. Laparoscopic surgery uses small cuts and usually heals faster with smaller scars.
After the surgery, babies may need fluids through IV therapy for a few hours. They can start eating again within 12 to 24 hours.
Circumcision Surgery
Circumcision is surgery to remove the foreskin, which is the skin covering the tip of the penis. This surgery is often done for newborn boys, but can also be performed on older boys for medical or cultural reasons.
In this surgery, the surgeon will give a local anesthetic to numb the area and reduce pain. For newborns, a special clamp or device is used to hold the foreskin in place.
The surgeon then carefully removes the foreskin with a surgical tool. After the foreskin is removed, the remaining skin is either stitched or glued to help it heal.
After completing the surgery, your child will be monitored for a short time to make sure there are no immediate complications.
Torsion Of Testicle (Emergency Surgery)
Torsion of the testicle is a medical emergency that requires immediate surgical intervention. This condition occurs when the testicle rotates,it twists the cord supplying blood to the loose bug of skin (scrotum) beneath the penis. This disruption of blood flow can lead to tissue damage and, if not treated promptly, can result in loss of the testicle.
The surgery involves untwisting the testicle to restore blood flow and may also include fixing the testicle to the scrotal wall to prevent future torsion. Early diagnosis and prompt surgical treatment are crucial to preserve the testicle and prevent long-term complications.
Congenital Malformations (Cleft Palate and Cleft Lip Repair)
Congenital malformations known as birth defects, are functional and structural abnormalities that develop in a baby’s body during pregnancy.
Cleft Lip: This affects the upper lip and may involve the nose.
Cleft Palate: This affects the roof of the mouth and may extend into the nasal cavity. So, surgery is necessary in this condition.
Anorectal malformation: Anorectal malformations are a group of birth defects affecting the rectum and anus. They can vary in severity from a small hole in the rectum to a complete absence of the anus.
For cleft lip repair (cheiloplasty), the surgeon makes cuts on either side of the cleft to bring the lip tissues together. They then stitch the tissues in place to close the gap and create a normal lip appearance.
For cleft palate repair (palatoplasty), the surgeon makes an incision along the gap in the roof of the mouth. They pull the tissues together and stitch them to close the opening and repair the palate.
For Anorectal malformation, the surgeon will make an incision in the abdomen and another around the anus. This will allow them to remove the rectum, anus, and surrounding tissues, including the sphincter muscle.
Below surgeries are performed to restore normal function and appearance, and they are done when the child is a few months old or older. These surgeries are often done in stages as your child grows, and they involve a team of specialists, including plastic surgeons.
ICD Placement for Pneumothorax and Empyema
Intercostal drainage (ICD) is a procedure used to treat pneumothorax (air in the pleural space) and empyema (pus in the pleural space) in children. During this procedure, a small tube is inserted between the ribs into the pleural space to remove excess air or fluid. The tube is connected to a suction device that helps drain the fluid or air, allowing the lungs to expand properly. ICD placement is typically performed under anesthesia and is a relatively safe and effective treatment for these conditions.
Pediatric Neurosurgery
Pediatric neurosurgery is a type of surgical procedure to treat disorders of the brain, spine, or nervous system in children. Some conditions like brain tumors, epilepsy, hydrocephalus (fluid buildup in the brain), or spinal defects are also addressed with this surgery. Pediatric neurosurgeons do tests like MRI or CT scans to see what’s happening inside the body. If surgery is needed, the neurosurgeon will make a plan.
Surgeons will perform these surgeries using specialized tools and techniques. They may make small incisions to access the affected area and remove tumors, drain fluid, or correct structural issues.
In some cases, they use minimally invasive techniques, such as endoscopy, to reduce recovery time and minimize scarring. After the surgery, the child will stay in the hospital to be watched carefully. They may need more treatments like physical therapy to help them get better.
Final Important Note for Parents
As you have explored our list of common pediatric surgeries, you now have insight into various pediatric surgical procedures but it’s important to remember that children’s surgeries can vary from minor to major.
Before deciding on surgery, the surgeon will review the patient’s medical history, conduct a physical examination, and perform necessary lab tests.
Depending on the condition, surgery may be minor or major and can be done using open or laparoscopic methods. Proper preparation before surgery and careful post-operative management are key for a successful outcome.
By following these steps, the healthcare team always aims to provide the best care for your child. If you’re the best pediatric surgeon in Ahmedabad, consider Motherhood Hospital.
They have a strong team of experienced pediatric surgeons, skilled plastic surgeons, and specialized pediatric neurosurgeons, so your child will be in compassionate and capable hands.
Remember, “The greatest wealth is health.” Choose the best for your child’s care.
