Pediatric Surgery

Pediatric surgery refers to all medical procedures that are aimed at children and their needs, both invasive and minimal. Biruni Hospital offers all of its patients the most technologically advanced procedures in the world with the help of our top doctors so that we can ensure your child's health and full recovery.

What is pediatric surgery?

Pediatric surgery is a specialized field that focuses on treating infants, children, and adolescents through surgical procedures. It is common knowledge that children's bodies differ from adults in anatomy and response to various treatments. This makes pediatric procedures and their doctors highly specialized.

The key aspects of pediatric surgery:

• Congenital Anomalies: This procedure is aimed at treating birth defects.
  
• Minimally Invasive Surgery: This type of procedure uses techniques such as laparoscopy to reduce scarring and recovery time.
  
• Neonatal Surgery: These are surgeries performed on newborns with critical conditions.
  
• Trauma Repair: Used when injuries like fractures and internal damage are the medical issue.
  
• Oncology: Used to remove benign and malignant tumors in children.
  
• Organ Transplantation: Organ transplants for children, such as liver or kidney transplants.
  

The most common types of pediatric surgeries

The most common types of pediatric surgeries include hernia repair, appendectomy, tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, and circumcision. Other frequent procedures involve treatment for congenital abnormalities, such as cleft lip and palate repair or correction of undescended testicles.

Neonatal surgery

This procedure is performed on newborns still within their first 28 days of life. It is done to correct life-threatening congenital conditions such as gastrointestinal blockages, heart defects, and abdominal wall anomalies.

Key steps and aspects:

• The initial care focuses on respiratory and nutritional support.
  
• Customized to neonatal physiology, requiring close monitoring.
  
• Common procedures include bowel obstruction repair or heart defect correction.
  
• Intensive monitoring for infection, respiratory function, and pain.
  
• Developmental assessments and monitoring for surgical outcomes.
  

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS)

MIS is a surgical procedure used to minimize trauma to the child's body. It is ideal because it offers faster recovery and reduced complications after the procedure and during the healing period.

Key steps and aspects:

• The doctor starts by administering general anesthesia.
  
• The doctor inserts a camera and fine surgical tools through small ports.
  
• The surgeon performs the procedure with the help of magnified images to better see the treatment area.
  
• After the procedure, short hospital stays are required. You might notice minimal scarring.
  

Congenital anomalies surgery

This type of procedure is directed at structural birth defects such as cleft palate, diaphragmatic hernia, and imperforate anus. Timely procedures help prevent long-term complications that can worsen if not treated early. They also support healthy development for your child.

Key steps and aspects:

• The doctor will perform a prenatal or immediate postnatal screening.
  
• A detailed evaluation is used to plan the surgery, often with a multidisciplinary team.
  
• Tailored procedures will be required to correct or reconstruct the affected anatomy.
  
• After the procedure, healing, pain management, feeding assistance, and careful wound care are essential.
  

Pediatric tumor surgery

This procedure involves the removal of tumors from organs like the brain, liver, or kidneys. It helps remove these tumors, whether they are benign or malignant.

Key steps and aspects:

• The doctor starts with imaging and a biopsy to determine the type and location of the tumor.
  
• The tumor is removed while preserving healthy tissue.
  
• The procedure may be open or minimally invasive, depending on its complexity.
  
• Recovery includes pain management, wound care, and nutritional support.
  

The necessary preparations before undergoing a procedure

Before undergoing a procedure, patients should follow all medical instructions, which may include fasting, adjusting medications, and completing necessary tests. It’s important to discuss any allergies, current health conditions, and concerns with the healthcare team to ensure a safe and successful procedure.

The personal preparations

Preparing your child for surgery is about more than just medical checklists; it’s also about emotional readiness, comfort, and clear communication. Taking the right steps ahead of time helps ease anxiety and ensures a smoother experience for both you and your child. Below is a guide to the personal and medical preparations needed before a pediatric procedure.

Emotional support and reassurance

• Talk to your child calmly about what to expect from the procedure.
  
• Use age-appropriate language to reduce their fear and anxiety.
  

Fasting and diet restrictions

• Follow strict instructions regarding your child’s diet.
  
• Ensure they are hydrated before the fasting period begins.
  

Clothing and comfort items

• Pack comfortable clothes and a favorite toy for your child.
  
• These items can reduce stress and offer emotional comfort.
  

Hygiene and skin preparation

• Bathe your child the night before or the morning of the procedure.
  
• Avoid lotions or creams on the surgical area.
  

Legal and Administrative Readiness

• Bring all required IDs and insurance documents on the day of the procedure.
  
• Sign consent forms in advance to avoid delays.
  

Preparations with your doctor

In addition to preparing your child emotionally and physically, communication with your doctor is essential. These steps ensure that your medical team has all the necessary information to tailor the safest and most effective surgical plan for your child.

A full review of the child's medical history

• The doctor will discuss your child’s medical background and past procedures.
  
• Share any allergies or current medications.
  

Preoperative examinations

• Blood tests, imaging, or an EKG may be performed.
  
• These help confirm your child is healthy enough for anesthesia and surgery.
  

Medication management

• You’ll receive instructions on which medications to stop or continue.
  
• Alternatives may be provided if certain medications interfere with surgery.
  

Anesthesia Consultation

• Meet with the anesthesiologist for a full evaluation.
  
• The doctor will review the anesthesia plan and discuss any concerns.
  

The post-operative period after a pediatric procedure

Once the surgery is complete, the healing process begins. From the recovery room to long-term follow-up, every phase of postoperative care plays a vital role in your child’s return to full health. Here's what to expect during this critical period.

The short-term healing period

In the hours and days following the surgery, your child will need careful monitoring and comfort. This short-term phase focuses on managing pain, preventing complications, and starting the first steps toward recovery.

Recovery room monitoring

• Your child will be closely supervised by our medical team.
  
• Vital signs, breathing, and pain levels are continuously tracked.
  

Pain and infection management

• Pain relievers and antibiotics will be administered.
  
• Dressings must be changed regularly to keep the wound clean.
  

Nutrition and mobility

• Feeding is reintroduced gradually based on your child’s condition.
  
• Gentle movement helps circulation and prevents stiffness.
  

Parent involvement and instructions

• Parents will be briefed on how to care for their child at home.
  
• Warning signs to watch for will be explained.
  

The long-term healing period

Healing doesn’t end when your child leaves the hospital. Ongoing follow-up and support are necessary to ensure lasting recovery and healthy development. Here’s how the long-term care process unfolds.

Follow-up appointments

• Regular checkups help track recovery and detect complications early.
  
• The doctor will monitor wound healing and organ function.
  

Physical and emotional recovery

• Physical therapy may be needed to regain strength and mobility.
  
• Emotional support is essential for helping your child adapt after surgery.
  

Medication continuation

• Some medications will continue to support healing and prevent recurrence.
  
• Dosages and durations will be adjusted based on recovery.
  

Return to normal routine

• Your child will gradually return to daily activities and school.
  
• Delay sports or strenuous activities until full recovery.
  

Moving forward with strength and care

Pediatric surgery is a delicate yet powerful field of treatment that can transform and sometimes even save young lives. From the first consultation to the long-term healing period, Biruni Hospital and its highly trained medical team will be with you every step of the way to full healing and ensuring your child’s future. We offer all of our patients the best and most highly sophisticated treatments.