What is a paediatric surgeon?
Paediatric surgeons are doctors who specialise in the surgical management of conditions affecting children of all ages.
What do paediatric surgeons treat?
Congenital or acquired conditions requiring surgical management including:
- Appendicitis
- Intussusception
- Abscess drainage
- Wound repair
- Trauma surgery
Gastrointestinal malformations like:
- Oesophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula
- Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis
- Intestinal atresia
- Meconium plugs
- Hirschsprung’s disease
- Imperforate anus
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Urological problems such as:
- Posterior urethral valves
- Chordee
- Undescended testes
- Ureteric reflux
Abdominal wall defects including:
- Omphalocele
- Gastroschisis
- Hernias
- Chest wall deformities
- Childhood tumors
What to expect at your child’s first appointment
History
Your paediatric surgeon will begin by asking about your child’s main problem:
- How it began
- Its development
- Progress
They will also ask about:
- Other medical and surgical conditions
- Family history
- Previous treatments
Examination
The surgeon will then conduct a general exam, looking at development and general condition before focussing in on the presenting problem.
A parent or guardian should be present to reassure and comfort the child if required.
Specialty areas of interest
- Paediatric urology
- Paediatric oncology
- Congential malformations
- Paediatric trauma
- Neonatal surgery
Training and qualifications
Links
- Find a Paediatric Surgeon
- ANZAPS: Australian and New Zealand Association of Paediatric Surgeons
- American Paediatric Surgical Association
A: Use HealthEngine to find and book your next Paediatric Surgeon appointment. Click on the following locations to find a Paediatric Surgeon clinic in your state or territory.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. If in doubt, HealthEngine recommends consulting with a registered health practitioner.
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