Paediatric Oncosurgery

Paediatric oncosurgery is a specialized field of medicine focused on the surgical treatment of cancer in children. This area of expertise combines surgical skills with a deep understanding of childhood cancers, aiming to provide comprehensive care that includes diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up for paediatric cancer patients. Paediatric oncosurgeons work collaboratively with oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists to ensure the best possible outcomes for young patients.

Who Needs Paediatric Oncosurgery

• Children and adolescents who are diagnosed with cancer may require paediatric oncosurgery as part of their treatment plan. Conditions that may necessitate surgical intervention include:

• Solid Tumours: Surgical removal of solid tumours, such as neuroblastomas, Wilms’ tumours, and bone tumours.

• Leukaemia: Surgical procedures like bone marrow biopsies for diagnosing certain types of leukaemia.

• Lymphomas: Surgical procedures for the diagnosis and treatment of lymphomas affecting various parts of the body.

Reconstructive Surgery: Addressing physical changes caused by tumour removal or treatment.

When to See a Specialist

If your child has been diagnosed with cancer or is showing symptoms that raise concerns about the possibility of cancer, it’s crucial to consult a paediatrician or a paediatric oncologist. If surgical intervention is deemed necessary, your child will be referred to a paediatric oncosurgeon who specializes in treating paediatric cancer patients.

Procedure

• Diagnosis and Evaluation: The process begins with a thorough medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of cancer and determine its extent.

• Preoperative Assessment: Before surgery, your child’s overall health will be assessed to ensure they are fit for the procedure. This may include blood tests, imaging, and other medical evaluations.

• Anaesthesia: General anaesthesia is administered to ensure your child’s comfort and safety during the surgery.

• Tumour Removal: The surgeon performs the surgical procedure to remove the tumour or a portion of it, with a focus on minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

• Reconstructive Procedures: In cases where tumour removal affects appearance or function, reconstructive procedures may be performed to restore normalcy.

• Postoperative Care: After surgery, your child will be closely monitored and receive appropriate pain management and care to support their recovery.

   

Road to Recovery

Recovery after paediatric oncosurgery varies based on the procedure, the type of cancer, and your child’s overall health. Paediatric oncosurgeons and healthcare teams work together to ensure the best possible recovery and transition to further treatments if needed.

Risk Management

While paediatric oncosurgery aims to provide the best outcomes, it carries certain risks due to the complexity of cancer treatment. Risks include infection, bleeding, complications related to anaesthesia, and potential impact on your child’s development. Skilled paediatric oncosurgeons, advanced technology, and specialized paediatric facilities help manage and minimize these risks.

Benefits of Paediatric Oncosurgery

• Tumour Removal: Surgical removal of tumours can be curative or a crucial step in cancer treatment plans.

• Improved Quality of Life: Reconstructive procedures can help restore appearance and function, enhancing your child’s well-being.

• Multidisciplinary Approach: Paediatric oncosurgeons collaborate closely with other specialists, ensuring comprehensive care tailored to each child’s needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will my child need additional treatments after surgery?

   Depending on the type of cancer, further treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be recommended to address any remaining cancer cells.

    

2. How long does it take for my child to recover after paediatric oncosurgery?

   Recovery times vary based on the procedure and the child’s individual healing process. Your paediatric oncosurgeon will provide specific guidelines.

    

3. Can my child’s cancer be completely cured with surgery alone?

   For some types of cancer, surgical removal of the tumour can lead to a complete cure. However, a comprehensive treatment plan might involve additional therapies.

    

4. What kind of follow-up care is required after paediatric oncosurgery?

   Follow-up care is essential to monitor your child’s recovery, manage any potential complications, and coordinate further treatments if necessary.

    

5. How can I support my child through the process of paediatric oncosurgery?

   Provide emotional support, communicate openly, and work closely with the healthcare team to ensure your child’s well-being and recovery.