Urology

Pediatric urology addresses diseases of the male and female urinary tract and the male reproductive organs in children. Pediatric urologists treat complications of the kidneys, adrenal glands, ureters, urinary bladder, urethra, testes, epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicles, prostate, and penis.

What is it?

Pediatric urology involves the treatment of infants and children with genitourinary complications. Pediatric urology is very different than the treatment of adults and requires urologists to address a wide range of issues including structural deformities and physiologic irregularities of the child’s urinary system.

What are the subspecialties?

Pediatric urology is a branch of urology that concerns genitourinary conditions in infants, children and adolescents. There are no formal subspecialties of pediatric urology, although pediatric urologists work with a diverse team of healthcare professionals to address varying structural deformities and metabolic cases.

What are the commonly associated medical diseases or symptoms?

In pediatric urology, complications include, but are not limited to hypospadias, urogenital sinus malformation, congenital urethra anomalies, cloacal exstrophy, undescended testis, hydronephrosis kidney stones and kidney ureter obstruction. Symptoms of genitourinary complications vary among individuals but generally include pain during the passage of urine, incontinence of urine, blood in urine, bed wetting, abdominal pain, testicular pain and testicular swelling.

What are the commonly associated medical procedures?

Common medical procedures include robotic and laparoscopic surgeries, circumcision and revision, bladder augmentation and ureteral surgery. Robotic and laparoscopic surgeries are implemented to correct internal structural deformities and circumcision/revision is an external procedure used to make structural modifications to the penis.  Bladder augmentation and ureteral surgery are used to correct obstructions in the urinary tract.

Are there any preventative measures I can take?

There are many genitourinary conditions that are beyond the control of a child. However, there are several helpful healthy habits such as drinking proper fluids, eating more calcium-containing foods and reducing sodium intake that have beneficial impacts on a child’s metabolic activity.

What are the common misconceptions about this specialty?

One common misconception is that a child has full control over his or her bed-wetting. This phenomenon is known as urinary incontinence which is an inability to control the timeliness of urination. This is a real, often distressing condition that pediatric urologists can work through with families by developing a treatment plan.

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All GlobeHealer Site content, including graphics, images, logos, and text, among other materials on the site are for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, and you should always contact your physician or qualified health provider for information regarding your health. Information on this site regarding the overview, diagnosis, and treatment of any kind should be looked at, in addition to the advice and information of your health care professional. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking treatment or medical advice due to information found on the GlobeHealer site.

If there is even the possibility that you may have a medical emergency, seek treatment, call your doctor, or call your local emergency telephone number immediately. GlobeHealer does not endorse being the first line of communication in case of emergency and does not endorse any specific test, physician, facility, product, procedure, opinion, or other information that is or may be mentioned on this site or affiliated entities. Reliance of any and all information provided by GlobeHealer, its employees, affiliations, others appearing on the Site under the invitation of GlobeHealer, or visitors of the site is solely at your own risk and is not the responsibility of GlobeHealer.

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Pediatric plastic surgery is performed for reconstructive or cosmetic purposes among children. Reconstructive plastic surgery is performed on abnormal structures of the body that are the result of congenital defects, developmental abnormalities, trauma, tumors or other forms of disease.

What is it?

Pediatric plastic surgery is directed towards fixing and reconstructing deformities and abnormalities in children caused by injury, illness, or birth defects. The treatment of these malformations and abnormalities aims to improve both the overall physical function and appearance for a child.

What are the subspecialties?

There are many subspecialties extending from pediatric plastic surgery, but the more common  subspecialties correct cleft lip and palate reconstruction, craniosynostosis, head shape abnormalities, and severe burns.

What are the commonly associated medical diseases or symptoms?

The most commonly recognized condition treated by pediatric plastic surgeons is cleft lip and palate. This is a birth defect where tissue in the mouth and face do not connect correctly, resulting in empty space within the face. Other common conditions and symptoms are severe burns, craniosynostosis, and vascular lesions. Craniosynostosis is a birth defect which causes a flat spot on the back of the skull. Vascular lesions are a malformation birthmark caused by arteries, veins, capillaries, and blood vessels that cluster and do not form properly.

What are the commonly associated medical procedures?

Procedures commonly associated with this specialty include surgery to correct cleft lip and palate, facial reconstruction, and skin grafting. Skin grafting is a technique where skin is taken from another part of a patient’s body and then transferred to the damaged site to restorative purposes.

Are there any preventative measures I can take? 

Many believe that plastic surgery is merely to improve physical appearances and ill-perceived bodily features. However, this is not the case with pediatric plastic surgery. More often than not, reconstruction is for improving features caused by birth defects and abnormalities that are beyond the control of the child and pose a significant disadvantage to quality of life.

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All GlobeHealer Site content, including graphics, images, logos, and text, among other materials on the site are for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, and you should always contact your physician or qualified health provider for information regarding your health. Information on this site regarding the overview, diagnosis, and treatment of any kind should be looked at, in addition to the advice and information of your health care professional. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking treatment or medical advice due to information found on the GlobeHealer site.

If there is even the possibility that you may have a medical emergency, seek treatment, call your doctor, or call your local emergency telephone number immediately. GlobeHealer does not endorse being the first line of communication in case of emergency and does not endorse any specific test, physician, facility, product, procedure, opinion, or other information that is or may be mentioned on this site or affiliated entities. Reliance of any and all information provided by GlobeHealer, its employees, affiliations, others appearing on the Site under the invitation of GlobeHealer, or visitors of the site is solely at your own risk and is not the responsibility of GlobeHealer.

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Pediatric orthopedics diagnoses and treats injuries or diseases of the musculoskeletal system in children.

What is it?

Pediatric orthopedics uses surgical and non-surgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors, and congenital disorders. A child’s body, which undergoes rapid growth, has a different response to injuries, and deformities than that of an adult.

What are the subspecialties?

There are pediatric orthopedists who specialize in certain diseases such as osteosarcoma (bone cancer), cerebral palsy (neuromuscular condition), and scoliosis (curvature of the spine), just to name a few.

What are the commonly associated medical diseases or symptoms?

There are many different conditions or issues that would cause someone to seek treatment with a pediatric orthopedist.  These problems could range from an accidental broken bone to genetic conditions that require bone reconstruction.  Some of the most common conditions that pediatric orthopedists see are growth plate fractures, infections in the bone, joints, or muscles, high school sports injuries, limb length discrepancy, and scoliosis.  Scoliosis is a condition where a child has a curvature in his or her spine that can cause a number of secondary problems.  Scoliosis itself can be a secondary condition due to a genetic disease such as cerebral palsy.  This neuromuscular disease can cause distortion in bone growth, causing the spine to take on an unnatural curve.

What are the commonly associated medical procedures?

With any specialty, come many different procedures.  Some of the more common procedures and treatments that you will find with Pediatric Orthopedics are casting and splinting, ligament repair, physical therapy, closed reduction of a fracture, and open reduction and internal fixation of a fracture.  Open reduction and internal fixation is a surgical method to repair a more complex break in a bone.  This is typically done to stabilize and realign the fracture, which will allow for a proper healing of the bone.

Are there any preventative measures I can take?

Preventative measures that can be taken in order to prevent orthopedic injuries in a child vary depending on age and overall health.  Having a proper diet full of nutrition, especially Calcium and Vitamin D, is essential in maintaining bone health.  Regular exercise and activity also plays a role in bone development and strength.  As a child becomes older and more involved in activities such as sports, encourage him or her to train outside of the sport to avoid injury.  Many injuries can be prevented with a conditioning program that has exercises designed specifically for that sport.

What are the common misconceptions about this specialty?

There is a common misconception that the carbonation in soda drinks is harmful to bones.  Although drinking soda might not be the best for a child’s overall health, it does not harm the bones. The issue with soda arises when a child begins to replace calcium-rich beverages with carbonated ones.  Instead of drinking carbonated beverages, encourage children to drink milk and other drinks containing high levels of Calcium and Vitamin D.

Another common misconception is that if a child is lactose intolerant, the only way to receive Calcium and Vitamin D is through supplements.  This is also false.  There are many alternative foods that are rich in these nutrients including leafy greens, certain cereals, and juices.  There are also  dairy products that have little to no lactose in them.  Some yogurts and aged cheeses that contain Calcium and Vitamin D also have low levels of lactose.

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All GlobeHealer Site content, including graphics, images, logos, and text, among other materials on the site are for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, and you should always contact your physician or qualified health provider for information regarding your health. Information on this site regarding the overview, diagnosis, and treatment of any kind should be looked at, in addition to the advice and information of your health care professional. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking treatment or medical advice due to information found on the GlobeHealer site.

If there is even the possibility that you may have a medical emergency, seek treatment, call your doctor, or call your local emergency telephone number immediately. GlobeHealer does not endorse being the first line of communication in case of emergency and does not endorse any specific test, physician, facility, product, procedure, opinion, or other information that is or may be mentioned on this site or affiliated entities. Reliance of any and all information provided by GlobeHealer, its employees, affiliations, others appearing on the Site under the invitation of GlobeHealer, or visitors of the site is solely at your own risk and is not the responsibility of GlobeHealer.

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Pediatric ophthalmology addresses the structure, function, diagnosis, and treatment of the eyes and vision system in children.

What is it?

Pediatric ophthalmology addresses diseases of the eye and its smaller components. A pediatric ophthalmologist diagnoses and treats all eye diseases, performs eye surgery and prescribes and fits eyeglasses and contact lenses to correct vision problems in children.

What are the subspecialties? 

Pediatric ophthalmologists who specialize in treating specific diseases and conditions of the eyes throughout childhood and adolescence.  These issues can be genetic, infectious, traumatic, or as simple as correcting blurry vision with glasses.

What are the commonly associated medical diseases or symptoms?

There are a few diseases that are particularly common in children’s eyes.  Some of these conditions are strabismus (misalignment of the eyes), astigmatism (uneven curvature of the cornea and/or lens), hyperopia (farsightedness), myopia (nearsightedness), and amblyopia.  You may have heard of Amblyopia, or “lazy eye”, which appears when visual activity is considerably better in one eye than the other.

What are the commonly associated medical procedures?

Varying procedures are performed to correct problems involving the eye.  In children, it is especially important to correct vision problems early to prevent any further damage.  Some of the most common procedures in pediatric ophthalmology include strabismus surgery, BOTOX injections, laser surgery for retinopathy of prematurity, frontalis sling surgery, and pediatric cataract surgery.  A cataract is clouding of the lens of the eye that causes blurred vision.  Unfortunately, this form of cloudy vision cannot be corrected via glasses or contact lenses.  Cataract surgery replaces the blurry lens with an artificial lens to improve vision.

Are there any preventative measures I can take?

Vision problems in children are often genetic, and therefore it is difficult to prevent the onset of these conditions. However, beginning treatment and vision therapy at an early stage can help prevent worsening of vision impairments. Eye injuries can be prevented by encouraging a child to wear sports goggles when playing high intensity sports and protective eye wear around machinery.  Keeping toxic chemicals and sprays out of reach of small children is another method to avoid eye damage among children. Children who play with pellet and BB guns are at a higher likelihood of experiencing injury to the eyes and because of this, these children should be closely monitored.

What are the common misconceptions about this specialty?

One misconception is that wearing glasses too often leads a child to an increased dependency on glasses. The truth is that glasses do not affect the health of the eyes, but rather just improve what is seen.  They do, however, take the strain off our eyes when trying to read or see things far away.

Another misconception is that children will outgrow conditions such as “cross eyes”.  This is untrue and can lead to permanent and serious vision complications later in life.  The earlier this issue is treated, the higher the chance the child has of regaining normal vision.  Treatments can range from prescription glasses to reconstructive surgery.

Disclaimer:

All GlobeHealer Site content, including graphics, images, logos, and text, among other materials on the site are for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, and you should always contact your physician or qualified health provider for information regarding your health. Information on this site regarding the overview, diagnosis, and treatment of any kind should be looked at, in addition to the advice and information of your health care professional. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking treatment or medical advice due to information found on the GlobeHealer site.

If there is even the possibility that you may have a medical emergency, seek treatment, call your doctor, or call your local emergency telephone number immediately. GlobeHealer does not endorse being the first line of communication in case of emergency and does not endorse any specific test, physician, facility, product, procedure, opinion, or other information that is or may be mentioned on this site or affiliated entities. Reliance of any and all information provided by GlobeHealer, its employees, affiliations, others appearing on the Site under the invitation of GlobeHealer, or visitors of the site is solely at your own risk and is not the responsibility of GlobeHealer.

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Pediatric oncology is the broad practice of diagnosing, preventing and treating forms of cancer in children. Pediatric oncologists treat and prevent cancer using medications (chemotherapy), surgery, or radiation therapy. Many of these treatments are combined to provide personalized approaches to eradicating aggressive cancers.

What is it?

Pediatric oncology involves the treatment of benign and malignant tumors in children. Pediatric oncologists work with other specialists to develop strategies for short and long-term cancer treatment and management. Some of their responsibilities include interpretation of diagnostic tests, administering medications, and overseeing chemotherapy treatments.

What are the subspecialties?

Pediatric oncology is a branch of internal medicine and although there are no subspecialties within pediatric oncology, pediatric oncologists are constantly working with other specialists to develop treatment strategies. Associated subspecialties include pediatric orthopedics, neurology, hematology and endocrinology, among others.

What are the commonly associated medical diseases or symptoms?

Pediatric oncologists concern themselves with the treatment of tumors and cancer. Common forms of cancer among children include acute lymphoblastic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, Ewing’s sarcoma, Hodgkin’s disease, Neuroblastoma, Non-Hodgkin lymphoma and Osteosarcoma. Cancer symptoms vary greatly because different cancers affect different areas of the body. General symptoms include unusual lumps in the body, fever, fatigue, pain, unusual weight loss, and visible changes to the skin.

What are the commonly associated medical procedures?

Although each cancer treatment plan is unique, common procedures include stem cell transplantation and radiosurgery. Pediatric stem cell transplantation is a procedure that introduces healthy bone marrow cells into a child with damaged bone and immune system in order to restore the function of bone marrow. Radiosurgery uses a tool called a gamma knife, which uses high levels of radiation, to destroy a cancerous tumor.

Are there any preventative measures that I can take?

Researchers and clinicians are working together to solve mysteries surrounding cancer. There is no known absolute method of preventing cancer, but there are many healthy practices that professionals believe significantly reduce the risk of cancer. Lifestyle changes such as eating fruits and vegetables, limiting consumption of red meat and alcohol, avoiding tobacco, managing one’s weight and routinely exercising are a proper approach to cancer prevention.

What are the common misconceptions about this specialty?

A common misconception in pediatric oncology is that the presence of cancer is absolutely fatal. Cancer is a serious condition that deserves devoted medical attention, but can be very treatable if caught early enough. It is important to consult a primary physician if any unusual changes emerge in a child. Other misconceptions is that cancer is contagious and that cancer has a direct source. Cancer is not a contagious disease, and even in the case of receiving an organ transplant from someone with cancer, the chances of a resulting cancer is very low. There are some behaviors that are accepted as contributors to cancers, namely tobacco use. At this time, there is no evidence that sugar, artificial sweeteners, cell phones, or power lines produce cancer in children.

Disclaimer:

All GlobeHealer Site content, including graphics, images, logos, and text, among other materials on the site are for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, and you should always contact your physician or qualified health provider for information regarding your health. Information on this site regarding the overview, diagnosis, and treatment of any kind should be looked at, in addition to the advice and information of your health care professional. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking treatment or medical advice due to information found on the GlobeHealer site.

If there is even the possibility that you may have a medical emergency, seek treatment, call your doctor, or call your local emergency telephone number immediately. GlobeHealer does not endorse being the first line of communication in case of emergency and does not endorse any specific test, physician, facility, product, procedure, opinion, or other information that is or may be mentioned on this site or affiliated entities. Reliance of any and all information provided by GlobeHealer, its employees, affiliations, others appearing on the Site under the invitation of GlobeHealer, or visitors of the site is solely at your own risk and is not the responsibility of GlobeHealer.

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Pediatric obstetrics and gynecology is the branch of medicine specializing in diagnosing and treating of complications with the female reproductive system in children.

What is it?

Pediatric obstetrics is the branch of medicine specializing in pregnancy, childbirth, and the period of time after a child is born in young girls.  Pediatric gynecologists are trained to diagnose and treat problems with the female reproductive system that are induced by developmental issues and other abnormalities.  Physicians are often trained in both specialties, allowing for comprehensive care of reproductive problems and pregnancy.  Pediatric OB/GYN physicians can provide preventative care, prenatal care, reconstructive care, Pap test screenings, and sexually transmitted disease testing.

What are the commonly associated medical diseases or symptoms?

Younger females and adolescent girls can face a number of problems when it comes to their reproductive health.  They are still growing and people do not often think of young girls having reproductive health issues. Common issues in young females include vulvovaginitis (yeast infection), pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, dysmenorrhea, and early puberty.  Precocious puberty, or early puberty, begins when a young girl under the age of eight starts to go through changes such as breast development, acne, rapid growth spurt, body odors, and vaginal discharge or bleeding.

What are the commonly associated medical procedures?

The first course of action used to treat conditions involving the female reproductive system in young girls is often hormone medication.  This treatment can be used to balance out hormones in order to manage the development of the reproductive system.  Other procedures, such as a vaginoscopy, require the child to be sedated in order to get a more comprehensive diagnosis of the child’s condition.

Are there any preventative measures I can take?

There are several signs and symptoms that can affect a young girl’s appearance and demeanor.  Keeping an eye out for unusual and early developments can help in managing any hormone imbalances the child might have. Anomalies in development and maturation cannot necessarily be prevented but there are actions that parents and children can take to adapt. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and open communication with specialists can improve overall health and address specific physical and mental developmental needs.

What are the common misconceptions about this specialty?

A common misconception is that girls should only go see a gynecologist if they are sexually active.  Unless there is already a specific issue that requires a girl to be seen earlier, girls should begin seeing a gynecologist between the ages of 13-15.  This can allow them to become comfortable with talking about their reproductive health.  When the body begins changing, a girl will have questions.  A Pediatric OB/GYN is capable of informing a young girl of bodily changes and what to expect physically as well as mentally.

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All GlobeHealer Site content, including graphics, images, logos, and text, among other materials on the site are for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, and you should always contact your physician or qualified health provider for information regarding your health. Information on this site regarding the overview, diagnosis, and treatment of any kind should be looked at, in addition to the advice and information of your health care professional. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking treatment or medical advice due to information found on the GlobeHealer site.

If there is even the possibility that you may have a medical emergency, seek treatment, call your doctor, or call your local emergency telephone number immediately. GlobeHealer does not endorse being the first line of communication in case of emergency and does not endorse any specific test, physician, facility, product, procedure, opinion, or other information that is or may be mentioned on this site or affiliated entities. Reliance of any and all information provided by GlobeHealer, its employees, affiliations, others appearing on the Site under the invitation of GlobeHealer, or visitors of the site is solely at your own risk and is not the responsibility of GlobeHealer.

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Pediatric neurology is the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord and nerves in children.

What is it?

Pediatric neurology treats disorders of the brain, spinal cord and nervous system from infancy through adolescence. Pediatric neurologists may be consulted for a wide range of conditions, spanning from cases of concussions to chronic conditions.

What are the subspecialties?

Pediatric neurology is a branch of internal medicine. There are many emerging sub-specialties of neurology relevant to the care of children with neurological disorders, such as neuro-epidemiology, neuropathology, interventional neurology and neuroimaging.

What are the commonly associated medical diseases or symptoms?

Pediatric neurologists work with children who have developmental problems such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, mental retardation, autism spectrum disorder, Tourette’s syndrome, neurofibromatosis, learning disabilities and a variety of neuromuscular disorders. Symptoms vary greatly among the different chronic conditions. General symptoms include muscle weakness, loss of sensation, seizures, pain, decreased attention span, delayed cognitive development and difficulty reading and writing.

What are the commonly associated medical procedures?

Although each neurological disease treatment plan is unique and uses a combination of diagnostic tests and procedures, common procedures include craniotomy, spinal fusion, and minimally invasive spine surgery. During a craniotomy, a surgeon accesses the brain by removing a flap of skull, and places a deep brain stimulator to correct brain lesions and injuries. A spinal fusion combines multiple vertebrae using rods or screws in order to stabilize the spine. Minimally invasive spine surgery is used to make structural corrections to the spine without damaging surrounding muscles.

Are there preventative measures  I can take?

Researchers and clinicians are working together to identify the causes of neurological disorders. Certain neurological disorders such as epilepsy are not preventable, but there are many healthy practices that professionals believe prevent the onset of additional conditions and make existing disorders more manageable. Lifestyle changes such as eating fruits and vegetables, monitoring blood pressure and weight and refraining from smoking are appropriate for neurological disorder prevention.

What are the common misconceptions about this specialty?

A common misconception in pediatric neurology is that there is an association between vaccines and autism spectrum disorder. There is no scientific evidence of a linkage between vaccines and children with autism spectrum disorder. Furthermore, vaccines are a safe, clinician-approved method of protecting one’s child and other children from the spread of preventable diseases.

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All GlobeHealer Site content, including graphics, images, logos, and text, among other materials on the site are for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, and you should always contact your physician or qualified health provider for information regarding your health. Information on this site regarding the overview, diagnosis, and treatment of any kind should be looked at, in addition to the advice and information of your health care professional. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking treatment or medical advice due to information found on the GlobeHealer site.

If there is even the possibility that you may have a medical emergency, seek treatment, call your doctor, or call your local emergency telephone number immediately. GlobeHealer does not endorse being the first line of communication in case of emergency and does not endorse any specific test, physician, facility, product, procedure, opinion, or other information that is or may be mentioned on this site or affiliated entities. Reliance of any and all information provided by GlobeHealer, its employees, affiliations, others appearing on the Site under the invitation of GlobeHealer, or visitors of the site is solely at your own risk and is not the responsibility of GlobeHealer.

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Pediatric general surgery focuses on abdominal contents including esophagus, stomach, small bowel, colon, liver, pancreas, gallbladder and bile ducts, and often the thyroid gland in children.

What is it? 

Pediatric general surgery is a specialty that focuses on a broad range of systems and areas of the body of a child, from newborns to adolescents. Pediatric general surgeons are qualified to perform procedures in most areas of the child’s body, including the neck, skin and soft tissues, and vascular and endocrine systems.

What are the subspecialties? 

The specialty of Pediatric General Surgery is a broad specialty with many associated subspecialties, but some of the commonly associated subspecialties include neonatal surgery, prenatal surgery, trauma, pediatric surgical oncology, and gastrointestinal surgery.

What are the commonly associated medical diseases and symptoms?

Due to the vast areas of the body that are covered by pediatric general surgery, there are a wide array of symptoms and diseases covered by this specialty. Common diseases are appendicitis, caused by an infection of the appendix, biliary atresia, a congenital condition where the liver does not excrete all of its fluids, and hernia, where a hole in the groin does not close after birth.

What are the commonly associated medical procedures?

Hernia repair is one of the most common medical procedures performed on children. Appendectomy is the surgical removal of a child’s appendix and a splenectomy is the removal of the spleen. Additionally, surgical treatments to remove parts of the liver and kidney are frequently performed.

Are there any preventative measures I can take?

Parents are encouraged to ensure that children are properly hydrated and nourished. A nutritious diet has been shown to improve organ functions and control weight loss, while keeping their immune system healthy.

What are the common misconceptions about this specialty?

A common misconception is that pediatric surgeons are not as skilled as adult surgeons. This is untrue however, as pediatric surgeons must undergo additional training. This is demonstrated by the fact that there are fewer surgeons in this specialty.

Disclaimer:

All GlobeHealer Site content, including graphics, images, logos, and text, among other materials on the site are for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, and you should always contact your physician or qualified health provider for information regarding your health. Information on this site regarding the overview, diagnosis, and treatment of any kind should be looked at, in addition to the advice and information of your health care professional. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking treatment or medical advice due to information found on the GlobeHealer site.

If there is even the possibility that you may have a medical emergency, seek treatment, call your doctor, or call your local emergency telephone number immediately. GlobeHealer does not endorse being the first line of communication in case of emergency and does not endorse any specific test, physician, facility, product, procedure, opinion, or other information that is or may be mentioned on this site or affiliated entities. Reliance of any and all information provided by GlobeHealer, its employees, affiliations, others appearing on the Site under the invitation of GlobeHealer, or visitors of the site is solely at your own risk and is not the responsibility of GlobeHealer.

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Pediatric gastrointestinal and minimally invasive surgery is a surgical specialty that involves the diagnosis and treatment of children with chronic and acute illnesses in the gastrointestinal tract.

What is it?

Pediatric gastrointestinal and minimally invasive surgery is a surgical specialty focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. Targeted organs for this specialty include the esophagus, pancreas, gallbladder, and stomach. Minimally invasive surgery is an alternative to traditional surgical procedures, which open larger areas of tissues. Minimally invasive surgical techniques require smaller incisions and have the ability to have shorter recovery times for the patient.

What are the subspecialties?

Common subspecialties of pediatric gastrointestinal and minimally invasive surgery include colorectal disorders, stomach disorders, bowel disorders, nutrition, and bariatric surgery.

What are the commonly associated medical diseases and symptoms?

Commonly associated medical diseases and symptoms that will cause one to seek treatment from a pediatric gastrointestinal and minimally invasive surgery include bowel irritations and disruptions, stomach discomfort, obesity, and hernias. These symptoms can be indicative of small gastrointestinal problems or larger ones.

What are the commonly associated medical procedures?

Common minimally invasive procedures are performed laparoscopically, which involves a fiber-optic instrument called a laparoscope that is inserted into the area of repair. In gastrointestinal surgery, this is common for abdominal procedures and areas within the gastrointestinal tract. Common pediatric gastrointestinal procedures include an appendectomy, which is the removal of the appendix, bowel resection, hernia repair, and splenectomy, which is the removal of the spleen.

Are there any preventative measures I can take?

A child with a nutrient rich, high fiber diet is recommended to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal issues or prevent future gastrointestinal abnormalities. Additionally, diets with reduced intake of red meat combined with good sleep and exercise patterns promote healthy, regular gastrointestinal patterns.

What are the common misconceptions about this specialty?

One misconception is that children immediately recognize when they are having pain or discomfort in regard to gastrointestinal problems. Children may not know how to identify or communicate gastrointestinal problems, making it difficult to find relief. It is the job of a pediatric gastroenterologist to not only provide care in the form of treatment of children’s gastrointestinal abnormalities, but to also care for them and provide support during their discomfort.

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All GlobeHealer Site content, including graphics, images, logos, and text, among other materials on the site are for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, and you should always contact your physician or qualified health provider for information regarding your health. Information on this site regarding the overview, diagnosis, and treatment of any kind should be looked at, in addition to the advice and information of your health care professional. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking treatment or medical advice due to information found on the GlobeHealer site.

If there is even the possibility that you may have a medical emergency, seek treatment, call your doctor, or call your local emergency telephone number immediately. GlobeHealer does not endorse being the first line of communication in case of emergency and does not endorse any specific test, physician, facility, product, procedure, opinion, or other information that is or may be mentioned on this site or affiliated entities. Reliance of any and all information provided by GlobeHealer, its employees, affiliations, others appearing on the Site under the invitation of GlobeHealer, or visitors of the site is solely at your own risk and is not the responsibility of GlobeHealer.

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Pediatric gastroenterology is a medical specialty that addresses diseases of the digestive organs, namely the esophagus, stomach, bowels, liver, pancreas and gallbladder in children.

What is it?

Pediatric gastroenterology addresses diseases of the digestive organs, namely the esophagus, stomach, bowels, liver, pancreas and gallbladder, in children. A pediatric gastroenterologist’s responsibilities include overseeing endoscopic techniques, developing strategies to manage chronic diseases, and interpreting diagnostic screenings.

What are the subspecialties?

Pediatric gastroenterology is a branch of internal medicine. Pediatric gastroenterologists work with other specialists such as hepatologists, oncologists and endocrinologists in developing comprehensive treatment plans for ailments and disease.

What are the commonly associated medical diseases or symptoms?

Common medical diseases that require consultation of a pediatric gastroenterologist include lactose intolerance, celiac disease, esophagitis, gastroesophageal reflux, gastrointestinal bleeding, Chron’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and obesity, as well as complications of the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. Additionally, symptoms include abdominal pain, ulcers, diarrhea, constipation, and jaundice.

What are the commonly associated medical procedures?

In addition to routine diagnostic tests, more frequent procedures include percutaneous gastrojejunostomy, esophageal manometry and BRAVO placement. Percutaneous gastrojejunostomy is a procedure wherein a tube is placed through the abdominal wall that acts as a feeding tube. An esophageal manometry is used to identify whether or not the lower esophagus sphincter is working properly. A BRAVO placement is a procedure used to measure acidity in the esophagus.

Are there preventative measures I can take?

While there are risk factors such as family history that might predispose one to gastrointestinal diseases, there are many measures that are under one’s control. The most useful preventative measures include exercise, avoidance of smoking or an environment with smoking, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables with less red meat, and management of weight and blood pressure. If symptoms of gastrointestinal problems persist, it is suggested to receive regular diagnostic tests.

What are the common misconceptions about this specialty?

It is a common misconception that children can outgrow celiac disease. Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disease that can lead to digestive deficiencies and malnutrition. It is important that families work together to have a management plan that removes gluten from a child’s diet, and that this management plan is continued throughout the individual’s lifetime.

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