PEDIATRIC NEUROSURGERY
If your child has problems involving the head, spine, or nervous system, a pediatric neurosurgeon has the experience and qualifications to treat your child.
Neurosurgical problems seen by pediatric neurosurgeons are often quite different from those commonly seen by adult or general neurosurgeons. Special training in pediatric diseases as they relate to pediatric neurosurgical diseases is important. Pediatric neurosurgical problems often are present for life. Pediatric neurosurgeons have a special and longstanding relationship with their patients. Children with nervous system problems frequently require ongoing and close follow-up throughout childhood and adolescence.
Pediatric neurosurgeons diagnose, treat, and manage children’s nervous system problems and head and spinal deformities including the following :
- Head deformities
- Spine deformities
- Problems and injuries of the brain, spine, or nerves
- Gait abnormalities (spasticity)
Children are not just small adults. They cannot always say what is bothering them. They cannot always answer medical questions, and are not always able to be patient and cooperative during a medical examination. Pediatric neurosurgeons know how to examine and treat children in a way that makes them relaxed and cooperative. In addition, pediatric neurosurgeons use equipment and facilities specifically designed for children. Most pediatric neurosurgery offices are arranged and decorated with children in mind. This includes the examination rooms and waiting rooms, which may have toys, videos, and reading materials for children. This helps create a comfortable and nonthreatening environment for your child.
The pediatric neurosurgeon will provide the diagnostic and surgical interventions in a hospital that has the support services, pediatric physicians, and nurses necessary for the care of your child. Children with special needs require that the pediatric neurosurgeon work closely with the primary care pediatrician and the pediatric specialist to provide coordinated and comprehensive care of the child.
If your pediatrician suggests that your child see a pediatric neurosurgeon, you can be assured that he or she has the widest range of treatment options, the most extensive and complete training, and the greatest expertise in dealing with children and in treating neurosurgical problems.