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

 

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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