What is an Umbilical Hernia? An umbilical hernia presents as a bulge or protrusion in your infant’s belly button. It is commonly found during the routine doctor’s visits they go to for the first few months of life. While this condition is visually alarming, it isn’t usually cause for concern. When the umbilical cord is cut, the ring typically closes on its own due to rectus muscle growth and fascial layer fusion. But when the fascia of the ring doesn’t close properly, intraabdominal contents may protrude. This results in a bulge in your child’s belly button . When your child cries, coughs, or strains to have a bowel movement, umbilical hernias may become more noticeable. However, when your child is quiet and resting, the bulge may diminish. Umbilical hernias do not usually cause pain, which should provide you some relief. How Common is an Umbilical Hernia? Umbilical hernias affect boys and girls equally. However, umbilical hernias are most common in premature babies and African-American infants. If your child falls into one (or both) of those categories, it is important to tell your pediatrician about any signs a hernia has developed. The good news is that 90% of umbilical hernias close on their own by the time a child is 4 to 5 years old. Often, doctors suggest delaying treatment due to a low rate of complications while waiting for the defect to close on its own. The size of the hernial ring is helpful to determine if it will close on its own. Umbilical hernias are most common in premature babies and African-American infants. If your child falls into one (or both) of those categories, it is something to keep an eye on and tell their doctor about. When Does an Umbilical Hernia Need Treatment? Although pediatric umbilical hernias are common among healthy infants, they are also associated with specific conditions such as common autosomal trisomies, metabolic disorders, and dysmorphic syndromes. It’s important that your doctor distinguishes whether your baby’s condition warrants further evaluation. If your infant’s umbilical hernia does not close on its own in their first few years of life, there are signs that will tell you it’s time to seek treatment: The bulge is firm, painful, or discolored or the hernia sticks out and can’t be pushed back into your infant’s abdomen. – these signs suggests the hernia is stuck and may be an emergency Your baby is over 4-5 years old and the hernia is still present. What is the Treatment for an Umbilical Hernia? The treatment for an umbilical hernia is umbilical hernia surgery. Due to how common pediatric umbilical hernias are, surgery is done in a single day. That means you can bring your child home the same day as the procedure. The procedure is performed while your baby is under general anesthesia. What Happens During Umbilical Hernia Surgery? The surgery for umbilical hernia is relatively straightforward. First, a small curved incision (resembling a smile) is made under your child’s belly button. Then the opening is closed with absorbable sutures and the overlying skin is closed with a combination of absorbable stitches below the skin and DERMABOND.  Umbilical Surgery Aftercare Hernia surgery recovery is simple. Immediately after surgery, your child’s belly button may be slightly swollen, but you can expect this to go away in a few weeks. Refrain from allowing your baby to participate in physical activity for 2-3 weeks post-surgery. Their follow-up appointment should be scheduled for 2-4 weeks after the procedure, when their doctor will evaluate your child’s recovery. There is a very small risk of recurrence of umbilical hernia once surgery is performed. If you notice that your child’s hernia has reappeared, call your Austin Pediatric Surgeon. Umbilical Hernia Treatment at Austin Pediatric Surgery Pediatric umbilical hernias are very common, and a routine surgery will fix the problem. If your child is showing signs of an umbilical hernia, contact Austin Pediatric Surgery to discuss treatment.

While your newborn having an undescended testicle might come as a shock, it is not a huge cause for concern. This occurs in about 4% of infant males when, while growing inside the womb, the testicles develop inside of his abdomen and fail to move down into his scrotum.[1] Treatment for a undescended testicle is an orchiopexy procedure that requires either a laparoscopy or open surgery with general anesthesia. This type of procedure has a 95% success rate.[2] Why Would My Child Infant Need Testicle Surgery? Undescended testicles are a result of an infant male’s testicles, after developing in his abdomen, failing to drop into his scrotum while he is growing inside his mother’s womb. Your doctor can diagnose undescended testicles by examining the child. While undescended testicles aren’t inherently harmful, the complications from them can be. Infertility and testicular cancer are the main issues that males with undescended testicles can face later in life if an orchiopexy isn’t performed within 18 months after birth.  However, it’s recommended that you see a specialist or pediatric surgeon if your son’s testicle hasn’t descended or can’t be located within 6 months after birth. If it’s determined that there are no testicles at all versus undescended testicles, diagnosis immediately after birth can help prevent conditions that result from absent testicles. That’s why seeking out a surgeon you can trust early on can lower the risk of complications and give you peace of mind. What is the Process for Infant Testicle Surgery for a Child? Orchiopexy may require more than one surgery to repair. These surgeries are outpatient procedures, which means you can take your son home after surgery. But what happens during the procedure? Your son will undergo anesthesia so the surgery can be performed. Once your infant is asleep, their surgeon makes a small cut in his groin or may place a camera in the abdomen to find the testicle.  The surgeon examines the undescended testicle to ensure it’s healthy.  If necessary, a hernia sac repair might need to be done first. After any hernia is repaired, a second cut in the scrotum is made to create a pocket for the testicle to sit in. With a surgical tool, the surgeon pulls the undescended testicle down into the pocket they created.  To finish, the surgeon secures the two cuts made with dissolvable stitches that dissolve after a week or two. You and your son can go home about two hours after they undergo an orchiopexy procedure.  Pediatric Testicle Surgery: Questions to Ask the Surgeon When it comes to your child, there are no questions you can’t ask. Let’s go over a few of the most common so you feel confident scheduling testicle surgery for your son. How long do I withhold food for my son after surgery? The reason it’s recommended to limit food post-op is due to the effects of the anesthesia used during the surgery. Start with clear liquids, and consider avoiding rich foods for the day after surgery to avoid nausea.  What is the recovery time after an orchiopexy? Give your son 2-3 days after the procedure before he resumes daily activities. A few specific activities to avoid are jumping, running, and straddling toys like tricycles or rocking horses.  How do I control my son’s post-op pain? Since an orchiopexy isn’t a major surgery, your son’s discomfort can be managed with over the counter medicine like aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen. Applying ice four times a day for at least 10 minutes can not only control pain, but limit swelling of his groin. When do I need to call the doctor if I think something’s wrong? There are 5 symptoms that make it clear it’s time to call your doctor after your son undergoes testicle surgery: Heavy bleeding A high fever Severe pain Severe swelling Infection  What signs of infection do I need to look out for? An infection can indicate there is something wrong with the affected area. Signs to watch out for include pus or redness along the incision sites, a 101 degree or higher fever, and increased pain or swelling. Does Your Child Need Testicle Surgery?  It’s recommended that you find a surgeon you can trust before treatment is needed. That’s because surgery for undescended testicles is best done immediately to prevent future complications. If you’re looking for a pediatric surgeon who has experience with testicle surgery, Austin Pediatric Surgery has the best surgeons for the job. Sources: [1]: https://www.chp.edu/our-services/surgery-pediatric/patient-procedures/undescended-testicle-orchiopexy-repair-surgery [2]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4889701/ [3]: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17297-orchiopexy [4]: https://www.chop.edu/treatments/surgery-undescended-testicles-orchiopexy

Your top priority as a parent is keeping your child safe and free from pain or sickness. So what happens when they develop a condition that puts that at risk? You find the top children’s hospital in Austin to ensure they get the treatment they need to feel healthy again. If you notice your child has developed a bulge or swelling in their lower belly near their groin area, this points to a condition known as an inguinal hernia.  What is a Pediatric Inguinal Hernia? A pediatric inguinal hernia is a condition in which swelling of the groin area results from a hole that lets contents in the abdomen move into the groin. Inguinal hernias may allow intestines or other organs to pass through. These types of hernias are not caused by your child lifting something too heavy or straining. Instead, the defect is present at birth, and the straining leads to internal organs moving through the hole into the groin. Inguinal hernias do not heal on their own and require surgical intervention. Inguinal Hernias in Girls vs. Boys Inguinal hernias can affect both infant girls and infant boys, but it is more common in boys.  While in the womb, your child develops a short tunnel through the abdominal wall. This tunnel should seal off naturally before they’re born; if not, an inguinal hernia can form. The only difference between girls and boys with this condition is where the abdominal cavity connects.  Inguinal Hernias in Infant Girls With inguinal hernias in infant girls, the short tunnel connects the abdominal cavity to their labia. If the passage does not close, a pouch – an inguinal hernia – can form within the belly lining. Inguinal Hernias in Infant Boys With inguinal hernias in infant boys, the short tunnel connects the abdominal cavity to the scrotum. This tunnel is how their testicles – which grow inside the abdomen before birth – move into the scrotum. How is an Inguinal Hernia Diagnosed? Infant inguinal hernias are typically spotted during a routine exam by your child’s pediatrician. A bulge near their groin will be apparent, making it easy to diagnose. If additional testing is needed to confirm, an ultrasound may be performed. Since nearly all cases of this condition are present at birth and are most common among infant boys, your child’s provider should take extra care to spot an inguinal hernia before it becomes an emergency. What is the Treatment for Inguinal Hernia? The treatment for your child’s inguinal hernia is pediatric inguinal hernia repair surgery. Rarely do inguinal hernias cause pain unless the intestines have moved through the open passageway and gotten stuck. If this happens, your child’s bulge will appear firm and red. This will require that your infant undergo an emergency hernia repair surgery. Why Does Your Child Need Surgical Intervention for an Inguinal Hernia? Inguinal hernias do not heal on their own. Treatment is necessary because incarceration or strangulation of the hernia is possible and can be extremely painful and dangerous. “These types of hernias are not typically caused by your child lifting something too heavy or straining. Rather, the defect is present at birth, and the straining leads to internal organs moving through the hole into the groin.” What is the Inguinal Hernia Procedure? The surgery to fix an inguinal hernia is a straightforward outpatient procedure that takes less than an hour: Your child’s pediatrician makes a tiny incision in the groin Any intestines that have shifted down are moved back into the abdomen, and the hernia sac is closed off. A camera may be inserted to see if a hernia is present on the other side. The hole is closed with dissolvable sutures, and the wound is covered with Steri-Strips or DERMABOND. Recovery from infant hernia surgery is quick. Your child can leave the hospital a few hours after the procedure and resume normal activities usually within 2 weeks. Why Choose Austin Pediatric Surgery for Your Child’s Inguinal Hernia Repair At Austin Pediatric Surgery, we are highly experienced in the classic open repair as well as laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair and perform scheduled and emergency surgeries. At our pediatric surgery center, we perform this procedure using a minimal incision and without using mesh or screens whenever possible. During the procedure, a tiny camera may be used to check for any secondary hernias. When the procedure is finished, dissolvable sutures are placed. Infant Hernia Surgery: Don’t Wait Because surgery is necessary for your child’s inguinal hernia, you want to choose a pediatric surgeon in Austin you can trust. Call and speak with a member of our team today for more information.

Helping your child to fast before pediatric surgery is just one of the ways you’ll need to prepare them for the procedure. At Austin Pediatric Surgery, we’re here to help parents understand why fasting is so important, and learn some ways to comfort your child during this stressful time. Why Fasting is Important Before Surgery Have you ever had the feeling that something “went down the wrong pipe” after swallowing? That’s called aspiration – when something enters the airways or the lungs accidentally. Fasting is necessary prior to surgery with general anesthesia to avoid aspirating vomit, and which is why food is restricted for several hours before the operation. When we’re awake and conscious, we can react to aspiration by coughing or gagging to clear the obstruction. But under general anesthesia, muscles are paralyzed and the patient can’t take action to clear the airways. Because there’s also an endotracheal tube placed in the throat, there’s an even greater risk that instead of expelling the vomit, it could travel into the lungs. Nausea is also a common occurrence after surgery, and the best way to prevent postoperative vomiting is to have an empty stomach prior to receiving anesthesia. Fasting Rules Prior to Pediatric Surgery It’s important to follow the specific guidelines laid out by your pediatric surgeon, but the general rules for fasting prior to pediatric surgery are as follows: Solid food (including rice cereal and baby food) may be eaten up until 8 hours before surgery. You can give your baby infant formula up to 6 hours before surgery, and breast milk up to 4 hours prior. Your infant or older child can have clear liquids up to 2 hours before surgery. Clear liquids include water, apple juice, popsicles, or a prepared electrolyte beverage. Milk and formula are not clear liquids. Remember to inform your doctor about your child’s regular medications to find out which may be taken prior to anesthesia, and don’t forget to mention any herbal or natural medicines you regularly give your child. How to Explain Fasting and Anesthesia to your Child Keep your child’s level of comprehension and maturity in mind when talking about the surgery and how to prepare for it, but don’t lie or try to hide information. You may be worried about frightening your child, but it’s scarier not knowing what is going to happen. It’s better that you have control of the narrative and are able to present it in a way that will keep fears to a minimum. For example, when trying to explain what will happen during anesthesia, you could tell your child they will take a short nap. Instead of using scary words like “shot” and “pain,” try to soften your language with substitutes like “pinch” and “sore.” When explaining fasting, you could let an older child know that it’s easier for the doctors to do their job when all food is completely digested or that they will feel better after the surgery if they have an empty stomach. Younger children may not need an explanation. Just give them a healthy meal prior to the 8-hour deadline, and prepare to feed them formula, breast milk, or clear liquids within the allowed time frames. Talk to your toddler 2-3 days ahead, while older children can have more of an advanced warning – 5 or 6 days. However, you know your child best and can make adjustments based on what you know about their tendency to feel anxious or worry. It’s so important that, as a parent, you remain calm since your child will take cues from you. Listen to their concerns and be honest, but gentle. Be sure to let them know that the surgical team will do everything they can to make them safe and comfortable. Ultimately, you know your child best. Some children benefit from touring the hospital or medical facility, while others may do best without thinking too much about the big day. Talk to your child to determine their level of anxiety, and provide as much information as needed to help them be ready for the big day. Find a Pediatric Surgery Center in Austin, Texas We know you’re concerned about your child’s health and safety. That’s why it’s important you choose a pediatric surgery center that has a reputation for providing the best care for infants, children, and adolescents. At Austin Pediatric Surgery, our surgical specialists are trained and experienced in using the most advanced techniques and minimally invasive technologies and have been helping and healing children in the community for more than 20 years. Please contact us to learn more about how we can help reduce your stress and make the surgical experience safe and comfortable for your child and your family.

Knowing that your child must undergo surgery is stressful for the entire family. And because your child looks to you to make them feel less fearful about the experience, you must, as a parent, do all you can to prepare for what could be a tough conversation.  Prepare Yourself Before You Talk to Your Child About Surgery The unknown is much more frightening than facing the facts about an unpleasant topic. Before you tell your child about the surgery, ask your surgical team questions about your child’s condition and what the surgery will involve before, during, and after the procedure. Arming yourself with knowledge will make it much easier to talk to your child and make them feel like you’re not hiding anything. Questions to Ask Your Doctor and Surgical Team While our surgical staff will do their best to prepare and inform you prior to the surgery, it’s always good to have a few questions ready if needed. We recommend asking: Who is the attending physician and who will be in charge of the operation? How long will the procedure take? Where will I be during the operation and when will I be able to see my child? How will pain be managed during the operation? What should I know about anesthesia? How long will my child be in the hospital? Are there detailed instructions for how to care for my child after the operation? How will pain be managed post-op? Will my child need rehabilitation or therapy? How long will it be before my child can return to normal activities? Knowing the answers to important questions can help relieve your own anxiety, and it’s crucial that your child see that you are calm when you talk to them about the surgery. Most children can pick up on their parents’ emotional states, and if you can project confidence and reassurance, it will put your child at ease. Talking to Children About Surgery Your child’s ability to understand his upcoming surgery will depend on his age. Toddlers and pre-school children should be not addressed in the same way as elementary school-aged children or teenagers.  Infants Up to 12 Months Your infant will not understand any language-based explanation about the surgery, but they may become stressed by a change in routine and if they sense their parents are anxious. Stay calm and cheerful while you show them picture books about hospitals, and then have them meet their doctors so they won’t be unfamiliar to them. Try to stay calm and your infant will likely pick up on those positive cues.  Toddlers 1-3 Years When you explain the surgery, tell your toddler that the doctor will make “x” better. You don’t need to go into detail or use words that will cause confusion.  Preschool 3-5 Years Begin talking about the surgery a number of days before the date. A child this age can handle more information about the procedure and why it’s happening, but reassure them that the doctors are there to help them feel comfortable and any pain will be minimal and won’t last for long.  It’s important to let your preschooler know that they haven’t done anything wrong and that their surgery isn’t punishment. Reiterate how the surgery will make them feel so much better in the long run! School-Age 6-12 Years Start talking to your school-age child a few weeks before the surgery. You can explain in more detail why the surgery is necessary and emphasize the benefits of having the procedure.  Maintain an open dialogue with your child so that they feel it’s okay to ask you questions and that they know they’ll get honest answers. Because they may feel out of control, let them make choices when it’s appropriate. Encourage creative expression to help them deal with the stress and anxiety they may be feeling. Teenagers Your teen wants their parents to be truthful. Make sure you speak honestly and answer questions directly. Respect their need for privacy and try to understand their concerns about how the surgery will affect their appearance, image, and social life.  Let your teen take some control about planning the conditions surrounding their surgery. but be wary of letting them do his own internet research! Instead, ask them to come up with a list of questions to ask the surgical team. Find a Pediatric Surgery Center That Will Ease Your Worries At Austin Pediatric Surgery, we’ve been caring for infants, children, and adolescents for more than 20 years. We’re home to the best pediatric surgeons in the Austin area and use the most advanced surgical technologies and minimally invasive techniques.  Learn more about the conditions we treat and how we can make your experience more comfortable, and if you have questions, please feel free to contact us any time.

If your child needs surgery, you may be wondering if the procedure requires an overnight stay or if he can go home the same day. Will the surgery require a large incision or will it be minimally invasive? Surgery can be classified into types based on the level of care needed and the procedure’s tools and techniques. Some of the common terms you may hear from your pediatric surgeon include: Day surgery Inpatient surgery Minimally invasive procedures Emergency operations At Austin Pediatric Surgery, we’re here to help you understand the differences and similarities between various types of surgery. Day Surgery Day surgery is also known as outpatient or ambulatory surgery. When your child is scheduled for day surgery, he or she will not be required to stay overnight in the hospital. Day surgery is recommended when the procedure cannot be completed in a doctor’s office, but it’s not so intensive that it requires the patient to stay in the hospital overnight for follow-up.  Day pediatric surgery allows parents to spend more time with their children before and after the procedure. The OR team and anesthesiologists will meet with you in the pre-op or pre-procedure room to discuss how anesthesia will be administered.  To decrease anxiety, many children can begin sedation by inhaling anesthetic gases. Once they fall asleep, an IV is inserted and surgery can begin. After the surgery, parents are welcome to join their child during the early recovery period to give their child support as the anesthesia wears off. Common pediatric procedures performed during day surgery often include: Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) conditions Some Gastroenterology (GI) procedures Removing cysts or benign lumps on the head and neck, as well as anorectal surgery Repairing umbilical and inguinal hernias Skin masses and infections Circumcision or correction of undescended testes Removing hardware placed during surgery for pectus deformities Gynecomastia Inpatient Surgery Inpatient pediatric surgery is scheduled when the child needs more post-op care and monitoring by the surgical team. Because extra care is needed, your child will have to stay at least one night in the hospital. The total length of stay depends on the specific surgery or procedure. Most of the pre-op care is similar to day or outpatient surgery, and the goal is still to let parents spend as much time with their child as possible.  But since your child will be spending at least one night away from home, parents must do more planning and preparation in advance of the procedure. Pediatric procedures that may require an inpatient stay include: Some head and neck surgeries Some cancer or oncology surgeries Surgery for Crohn’s Disease  or Ulcerative Colitis  Complex Thoracic Surgery Some Liver and Gallbladder surgeries Neonatal Surgery Minimally Invasive Surgery Minimally invasive pediatric surgery uses special instruments to better visualize the operation site, and this type of surgery allows for smaller incisions. These procedures have faster recovery times, less pain, require fewer narcotics, and result in reduced scarring. Some procedures and surgeries that use minimally invasive techniques include: Umbilical and inguinal hernia, along with some other types of hernias Nuss repair for Pectus Excavatum (also known as chest wall deformities) Meckel’s Diverticulum Gallbladder Removal Some Liver Disease Surgeries Ovarian cyst removal Undescended Testicle Emergency Surgery Pediatric patients account for 25% of the Emergency Department visits in the U.S.  ER doctors are prepared to quickly respond if an injury or illness poses an immediate risk to the child’s life or long-term health. For ER surgeries that are not the result of pediatric trauma or injury, the most common emergency procedures are appendicitis, hernia, and intestinal obstruction. Many of these non-trauma-related emergency surgeries are for neonatal fetal diagnoses. Let Us Answer Your Questions The different classifications of surgery are not mutually exclusive. Your child may need emergency surgery, but the recommended surgical technique might be minimally invasive. Some surgeries do not have to be scheduled right away but will require one or more days in the hospital. If your child needs surgery, it’s likely you’re feeling scared, stressed, and confused. Austin Pediatric Surgery has cared for Central Texas’s infants and children for over 20 years, and our staff includes the best pediatric surgeons in the area. Let us reassure you by providing the information you need to be strong for your child.

There is no question that pediatric surgery can be an overwhelming experience for parents and families to cope with. Oftentimes, parents are just as nervous, if not more nervous, than the child themselves.  While coping with anxiety, intense emotions, and stress leading up to the surgery date is completely valid and normal, preparing yourself and your child for surgery will help the stress become more manageable. 8 Tips For Seamless Pediatric Surgery Preparation The more that you prepare for the details of your child’s surgery, the more confident and calm your entire family will feel. 8 simple ways to best prepare yourself and family for an impending surgery include: Don’t Keep Your Child in The Dark As a parent, it is only natural to want to protect your child from the scarier parts of life. While putting off the conversation surrounding an upcoming surgery might be tempting, the unknown can actually increase a child’s anxiety more in the long-run. Since children have vivid imaginations, it is easy for them to picture a surgery as a much scarier event than it really is.  Sitting down with your child and calmly explaining the reason behind their upcoming surgery and hospital stay offers them the opportunity to ask questions, share their fears, and receive the proper reassurance and guidance that everything will be okay.  Work With a Child Life Specialist Child life specialists are a wonderful resource to capitalize on in a hospital setting. As trained pediatric professionals, child life specialists have the expertise to help children and families better cope with a medical setting. In general, child life specialists can help with many facets of the surgery experience, including:  Explaining your child’s surgery in an age-appropriate manner that avoids any scary words or images Providing emotional support to your child and family Offering pointers for how you can approach your child about their upcoming surgery Prioritize Your Personal Needs As Much As Your Child’s Needs At the end of the day, the better your mental and physical wellbeing is taken care of as a parent, the better equipped you will be to take care of your children’s needs and concerns. If all of the tasks on your plate feel like too much to handle, leaning on friends and family for support is an excellent tool.  While it is in a parent’s nature to put a child’s needs above all else, remember that your own needs are essential as well.  Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions When it comes to your child’s upcoming surgery, knowledge is power. Discussing any and all questions or concerns with your child’s surgeons and anesthesiologists prior to the procedure will ease your mind and keep you from jumping to any unnecessary conclusions. Not only this, but it will better equip you with answers that you can relay to your child if they have similar questions.  Every surgery offers a different set of parameters of the hospital stay time, length of the procedure, and preoperative and postoperative instructions. Helpful questions to ask your child’s doctors include topics related to: How many nights or hours the child can expect to stay in the hospital The type of anesthesia method that will be used What the recovery and pain-management process should look like after surgery Instructions that the child should follow in the days or hours leading up to a successful surgery What exactly the surgery will resolve and how it will benefit your child’s health outcomes Familiarize Your Child with Medical and Hospital Settings A hospital setting doesn’t have to be an unknown and intimidating place. Familiarizing your children with what happens at a hospital, what to expect, and how certain medical equipment works will show children that there is nothing to be afraid of in a medical setting. Easy ways to bring greater awareness of medical and hospital-related topics include: Playing with medical-themed toys such as fake stethoscopes and bandages Reading children’s books that take place at a hospital or involve a child getting surgery Taking your child on a facility tour of the hospital their surgery will take place in. This familiarizes the both of you with the ins and outs of the hospital environment.  Always Bring a Piece of Home to the Hospital No matter the child’s age, it can feel overwhelming to navigate the newness of the medical tools and equipment that accompany a hospital environment. Bringing a small, coveted memento to comfort your child is a surefire way to make a hospital room look, feel, and even smell a little more like home.  Easy items to bring that elicit familiarity and comfort include blankets, pillows, stuffed animals, and toys.  Follow All Preoperative Instructions the Day Before The Surgery To prepare your child to have the most successful surgery outcome possible, it is crucial to pay close attention to all of the preoperative instructions that your child’s doctor requires. This ensures that your child is taken care of both physically and emotionally.  Show Confidence in Your Child’s Doctors and Surgery Let’s face it: kids are incredibly smart at all ages, and can easily pick up on nonverbal cues, body language, and the emotional states of those around them. Because of this, it is important as a parent to carry yourself in a confident and calm manner when discussing their surgical procedure. Assuring them that you are very confident in the abilities of their doctors, nurses, and medical staff will ensure that they feel secure as well. Work With the Best Pediatric Surgeons in Austin All in all, implementing these simple tactics will make your child’s surgery a more relaxing experience for the entire family. With over 20 years of experience as a pediatric surgery center, our capable team of medical professionals at Austin Pediatric Surgery are committed to creating as comfortable of a surgical experience as possible for both patients and their families.

Every year, 450,000 children under the age of 18 get surgery in the United States. Kids can easily feel scared and overwhelmed by the surgical recovery process. This period of time might be one of the first moments of their life experiencing high levels of pain, discomfort, or weakness.  To make this process a little more manageable for both parents and children alike, this article explores the typical healing journey and the best ways to make recovery as relaxing as possible. How Long Does It Take To Recover From Surgery? Directly after surgery, kids will be placed in a recovery room to wait for the anesthesia to wear off. It takes around 45 minutes on average for children to recover from the general anesthesia from their surgery. Depending on the type of surgery and the success of the procedure, kids will either be discharged a few hours later or spend one night or more in the hospital for extra monitoring during recovery.  The estimated recovery time for surgery completely depends on your child’s unique situation.  The invasiveness of the surgery, the unique medical background of your child, complications from the surgery, and the part of the body that the surgery was performed on can all play a role in the recovery time. Recovery Symptoms To Look Out For Even if your child’s surgery is seamlessly executed without any complications, the majority of patients in surgical recovery will experience some inevitable pain and irritation of the body. Some of the most common post-operative recovery symptoms that aren’t usually much of a cause for concern include:  Pain or swelling in the surgical site Mild constipation or gas buildup  Nausea from pain medications or anesthesia  Trouble falling asleep  While the above symptoms are common, if you notice them worsening instead of getting better, it is important to speak with a medical professional. Furthermore, it is time to call the doctor when any of these more severe symptoms arise:  High fever and flu symptoms  Difficulty breathing The inability to urinate A surgical wound that looks infected, with excess drainage, odor, swelling, or redness More severe or worsening pain 5 Ways To Console Children Through Recovery Here are 5 tips to keep your child calm and relaxed through the surgical healing process:  Have Comforting Items Available When your child comes home from the hospital after surgery, make sure to have comfortable items on hand. After spending time in the stressful and unfamiliar setting of the hospital and operating room, familiar items of comfort will help your child feel more relaxed and grounded. This might include their favorite blanket, stuffed animal, toy, pacifier, or pillow.  Give Children Hugs  Sometimes all your child needs to feel better is the physical affection of a cuddle or hug. Hugging releases oxytocin in the brain, which plays a huge role in reducing stress and anxiety. Not only this, but oxytocin is even associated with stronger immune systems and wound healing as well.  Be Mindful Of Their Pain Levels Some kids might have some trouble directly articulating if they are experiencing pain from their surgery. As a parent, it is important to encourage your child to express how they are feeling to ensure that they are receiving the proper dosage of pain medications.  Depending on the age of your child, some might be too young to express this need, which is why paying attention to their body language is equally important. Signs of your child in pain include irritability, restlessness, crying and wincing, and frowning.  Have Entertainment Ready To Go To distract your child from their pain and discomfort, it is helpful to have a variety of entertainment ready to go. Books, movies, television shows, songs, video games, and other types of multimedia content are all great ways to keep children focused on something more positive and fun, without having to exert too much physical effort.   Work With A Child Life Specialist If you find yourself struggling to help your child cope with their recovery symptoms effectively, working with a child life specialist is a great way to get some ideas and professional support. Child life specialists are trained professionals in helping kids and their families navigate illness, hospitals, and the medical experience. Austin Pediatric Surgery is In Your Corner The recovery process can be a long and bumpy road, but with ample support and professional assistance from Austin Pediatric Surgery, your child will get back on their feet in no time.  To receive the best post-op care for your child in Austin, look no further than our compassionate team today. Contact us today to learn more.

Knowing your child needs hernia surgery can be scary — Austin Pediatric Surgery is here to help. If your child has an abdominal wall hernia, Austin Pediatric Surgery is here for you. We understand that watching your child undergo any sort of medical procedure may be intimidating, and our highly advanced team of medical professionals are here with you every step of the way. At our practice, we specialize in pediatric surgery with expertise in all types of abdominal wall hernias, including inguinal hernias, ventral hernias, epigastric hernias, and umbilical hernias, as well as others. That’s why we’ve compiled this article listing everything you need to know about your child’s hernia surgery. This information will help you come to your child’s appointments with the peace of mind you’ve been looking for. Which Hernia Conditions Require Surgery? Hernia surgery may be required depending on the type of hernia your child has, how old the child is and whether the hernia is causing symptoms, such as pain. At Austin Pediatric Surgery, our experienced surgeons can treat any type of abdominal hernia your child may be experiencing; however, the three most common forms of child hernias we see are umbilical, inguinal, and epigastric. Are There Risks During Hernia Surgery? There are few risks associated with pediatric hernia surgery. In rare instances, however, infection or bleeding can occur around the surgical site. Hernias can also come back, but rarely. Your child’s surgeon will give you recovery instructions for what to expect after surgery. If you notice any bleeding or what could look like the beginnings of an infection, be sure to contact your child’s surgeon. Austin Pediatric Surgery is available around the clock for any concerns you may have after surgery. How Should I Prepare My Child for Hernia Surgery? Your child’s pediatric surgeon will provide you with a list of instructions that will be your guide as you prepare your child for this procedure. Make sure that your child is bathed either the night before or the morning of the surgery. A nurse will clean and sanitize your child’s surgical site prior to the procedure in the operating room, but bathing beforehand can also help decrease the risk of infection. You will be given a time at which your child should stop eating and drinking. It is important to make sure that your child abides by these instructions since the procedure may have to be rescheduled if these instructions are not followed. You can also help your child mentally prepare for this procedure by comforting your child with the fact that there will be friendly faces nearby. It may also be helpful to bring something that reminds your child of home to the procedure, such as a blanket or a stuffed animal. This can help bring some comfort to your child during pre-op and recovery. What Should I Expect During My Child’s Surgery? Most pediatric hernia repairs are relatively quick; your child will likely be in the operating room for less than an hour, including anesthesia and wake-up time. Once your child wakes up from the anesthesia, they will be brought back to the recovery room for post-operative monitoring. When you child is alert, they will bring you to their bedside as soon as possible. Most hernia surgeries are outpatient procedures, meaning you and your child can most likely go home a few hours after the surgery. What Will Post-Surgical Recovery Look Like? Children are resilient, and it shouldn’t take long after your child’s procedure for them to begin feeling like themselves again. Most children are able to go back to their normal activities after a few days, but it could take a few weeks for a full recovery if your child’s hernia was larger or more complex to repair. Your child’s surgeon will inform you of what your child can and cannot do in the days following their surgery and when you should give them their medication. A follow-up appointment with your surgeon may be recommended, usually 2-4 weeks after surgery to check and make sure everything is healing well. See the Doctors You Can Trust at Austin Pediatric Surgery We understand that sending your child into surgery is stressful. When you contact us, our specialists can answer any questions or concerns you may have about your child’s hernia surgery and schedule it at a time that’s convenient for you. We’ll be glad to provide you with the information and treatments that your child needs to get them feeling healthy once again!

With school and extracurricular activities, most parents have enough on their plate when it comes to their children. But a child in need of skin surgery is enough to make parents stop in their tracks. At Austin Pediatric Surgery, we’ve performed thousands of pediatric surgeries. We always put the needs of your child first, and we can confidently talk with you about everything you need to know about your child’s skin surgery. The Importance of Skin Surgery For the most part, moles, bumps, and acne marks are just part of growing up. However, when moles and other skin marks begin to grow or change in size, it’s time to see the pediatrician. Let’s talk more about the specific skin issues we treat at our Austin facility. Cysts One of the most common skin conditions we see in children is cysts . We treat dermoid cysts, epidermoid cysts, and pilonidal cysts. We offer an outpatient surgery that is minimally-invasive, and effective. Some cysts, such as pilonidal cysts, may require repeated surgeries to cure the disease. Lipomas While lipomas look like cysts, they’re actually different. Lipomas are fatty lumps growing between skin and muscle, whereas cysts are sacs that are filled with various tissues, cells, and fluids. These can be easily removed with outpatient surgery. Skin Tags Are skin tags harmful? Not exactly. But as your child runs, jumps, and plays, the last thing they need to worry about are skin tags. They can get caught on clothing and jewelry, and cause unnecessary irritation. The good news is that we can sometimes remove them in our office, and they are not likely to grow back. Understanding Risks of Skin Surgery While the risks associated with most of these procedures are minimal, it’s still important to be aware of them. Skin surgery can result in increased skin sensitivity, as well as redness around the affected areas. Nerve damage of varying degrees is also a potential complication of skin surgery, which is why it’s so important to keep in touch with your pediatric surgeon. Our experienced medical staff conducts pediatric surgery with a full awareness of these risks. Your surgeon will ensure your child’s procedure is completed in a safe environment with a full surgical team in place. What to Expect at Your Child’s Skin Surgery Skin surgeries are designed to take as little time as possible. Not all surgical procedures require general anesthesia. Some procedures are performed with local anesthesia only, which is limited to numbing in the surgical area. Some children describe a local injection of anesthesia as a cold sensation or a slight burning sensation, but both go away quickly. For skin procedures that involve general anesthesia, an anesthesiologist is in the room to monitor the process from start to finish. While some children have issues with general anesthesia, it is very uncommon. There may be some grogginess after they are brought out of sedation, but this typically fades quickly. In most cases, your child will go home the same day of the surgery. We pride ourselves on our focus on children’s comfort while handling the intended medical procedures with care. Navigating the Post-Surgery Recovery Process with Your Child It is said that real healing begins at home, and this is true after pediatric surgery of any kind. Be sure to comfort your child during this time: going through any surgery process is difficult and stressful! If your child is mature enough, encourage them to be an active participant in the healing process. For example, older children may want to exercise their independence by cleaning their own surgical sites. Be sure that you teach them to be as gentle as possible and supervise the process so stitches aren’t pulled out. Cleaning the skin gently is the most important thing to do. Warm water and gentle soap go a long way. Make sure that your child isn’t using heavily fragranced soap or body spray during this critical time . Body sprays may cause skin irritation, so avoid those as much as possible. When you bring your child to follow-up visits after surgery, let them know that they can share any of their concerns with the doctor. Any sharp pain or changes in color at the surgical site should be communicated to your doctor immediately. An Important Note About Antibiotics If antibiotics are required after surgery, it’s important to take the entire course of the medicine and not just stop a few days into it. It’s harder for antibiotics to do their job if your child doesn’t take all of the medication prescribed by the doctor. Austin Pediatric Surgery Is Here to Help We know your child’s skin surgery is a difficult and scary topic, so feel free to contact us by phone or email to let us know your concerns. We’d be glad to walk through your child’s upcoming surgery, as well as make suggestions for aftercare and follow-up visits.

If your child has a liver or gallbladder condition, it’s possible that their primary physician may recommend a surgical procedure to fix the issue. While this is a stressful decision for any parent, Austin Pediatric Surgery is here to put your mind at ease. At our pediatric surgery center, our surgeons specialize in both pediatric liver surgery and pediatric gallbladder surgery. At our pediatric surgery center, our surgeons specialize in both pediatric liver surgery and pediatric gallbladder surgery. We understand that before your child undergoes any procedure, you’ll have several questions and concerns that arise. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about your child’s liver and gallbladder surgery—but if you have any additional questions, don’t hesitate to contact the medical team at our office. Common Pediatric Liver and Gallbladder Conditions There are many different conditions that could require pediatric liver or gallbladder surgery. The most common liver and gallbladder conditions we see in children are: Liver tumors Biliary atresia Choledochal cysts Cholelithiasis (gallstones) Cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation) Biliary dyskinesia (improperly functioning gallbladder) Are There Risks to Surgery? The liver is an important organ that your child needs in order to function and thrive. The gallbladder , though not a vital organ, can cause ongoing pain and if there’s a condition that’s left untreated. The risks associated with your child’s surgery are dependent upon how invasive the procedure is. At Austin Pediatric Surgery, we focus on performing our procedures with techniques that are as minimally invasive as possible. Because of this, most of our surgeries are low-risk, although you should contact your surgeon immediately if you notice bleeding or infection around the surgical site or if your child develops a fever after surgery. If your child is in need of an open operation, the recovery time will be longer and there may be more risks associated with surgery. However, we have some of the best pediatric surgeons in Austin on our team, and they will perform your child’s procedure as safely as possible and will let you know of any risks associated with the specific operation. How Should I Prepare My Child for Surgery? The best way to help your child prepare for surgery is to comfort them and answer all of their questions in a reassuring way. Let them know that the surgery is for the best and that it will help them feel better. Talk to them about all of the kind doctors and nurses that will be helping them. The night before surgery, have your child pick out a special stuffed animal or blanket to bring with them. This small thing can provide a lot of comfort to your child during the pre-op and recovery period. Your child’s pediatric surgeon may  also give you a list of instructions to help you prepare your child for the procedure. Make sure your child gets a bath or shower the night before or the morning of the surgery. Prior to the procedure, a nurse will clean and sanitize your child’s surgical site in the operating room, but bathing beforehand can also help reduce the risk of infection. You will be told when your child should stop eating and drinking the night before the surgery. It is critical that your child follows these instructions, because the procedure may have to be rescheduled if they do not. How Long Will Surgery Last? The amount of time your child spends in the operating room will depend on the type of procedure our surgeons are performing. With gallbladder surgery, you can expect the procedure to be completed within 1-2 hours. With liver surgery, the procedure can be longer, depending on the severity of your child’s condition and the complexity of the procedure needed in order to fix the condition. Your child’s surgeon will let you know how long you should expect to be waiting. Once your child wakes from the anesthesia, you will be able to wait with them in the recovery room. What Will Post-Op Recovery Be Like? The amount of time it takes your child to recover from surgery will depend on your child’s specific condition and surgery. With gallbladder surgery, your child will be able to return home in one or two days following the operation. With liver surgery, your child may need to recover in the hospital for a longer period of time, perhaps up to a week. Your child’s surgeon will let you know how long you should expect your child to stay in inpatient recovery and how you can prepare for their outpatient recovery back at home. Your Child Is in the Best Hands at Austin Pediatric Surgery Liver or gallbladder surgery can be scary for both you and your child. Remember that our dedicated and compassionate team of medical professionals is here for you every step along the way. To talk to our doctors about any additional questions you may have,  or to inquire about scheduling your child’s procedure, contact Austin Pediatric Surgery today.

Preparing for your child to undergo pediatric surgery can be nerve-wracking. You may have a lot of questions and fears.  That’s okay! Our team of Austin’s best pediatric surgeons has immense compassion for what you’re going through and how you’re feeling. We’ve compiled this resource to help you understand what to expect and how to prepare for your child’s gastrointestinal surgery.  Undergoing surgery while they’re young can greatly improve their quality of life now and prevent even greater risks later in life. Pediatric GI Conditions that May Require Surgery Our surgical team is equipped to correct many different pediatric GI issues. Some of the more common ailments are appendicitis and tumors,  as well as issues involving the esophagus, stomach, and intestines.  Appendicitis Appendicitis is the most common pediatric GI surgery. Your child may have belly pain, vomiting, and a fever. If appendicitis is diagnosed,  this requires appendicitis surgery to remove it. Intestinal Obstruction or Blockage A bowel obstruction can occur when part of the intestine is blocked due to a tumor, scar tissue, or another obstruction. Food and stool may be unable to pass through the intestine, leading to serious complications.  Meckel’s Diverticulum Meckel’s diverticulum occurs when the child’s small intestine has an outpouching in the wall. It’s only found in about 2% of the population and is the most common congenital intestinal malformation.  The Risks of GI Surgery  While every type of surgery carries some level of risk, consenting to have your child undergo gastrointestinal surgery is a big decision. It’s important to be informed of the risks.  Anesthesia risks are closely tied to the child’s overall health. The more fragile their health, the higher the risk.  Some parents worry about scar tissue after surgery. Scar tissue forming after GI surgery can lead to bowel obstruction down the road. The risk is quite low (less than 2%) for appendectomy procedures and somewhat higher for other abdominal operations.  Each child’s situation is unique and may come with specific risks or complications. Consult your surgeon to discuss your child’s specific risk level.  How to Prepare Your Child for Surgery Depending on your child’s age, they could be unphased by the prospect of surgery, or they could be experiencing anxiety related to the unknown.  Your child must know you support how they feel. Engage in open and honest communication appropriate for their age level.  If you or your child have questions, please pass these on to our staff. We want them to know their concerns are important to us.  Comfort Measures A toddler may require simple explanations that give an overview of expectations without overwhelming the child. Prepare an elementary-age child a few days in advance to allow them to adjust to the idea. Young children may also enjoy being able to bring a special stuffed animal or blanket to the medical center on the day of surgery. An older child may appreciate meeting the surgical team and touring the facility in advance. Teens and pre-teens should be allowed to bring comfort and entertainment gear to the hospital with them to keep their nerves at bay. How Long Does Surgery Take? Each patient’s needs will be different. With pediatric patients, unique challenges may present and the procedure could take longer. Common laparoscopic surgeries and bowel resection operations can take between one and four hours. More complex diagnoses could take longer. Your surgeon will be able to provide an estimate for your child’s particular case.  Post-Op Recovery Our team is here to support you and your child’s recovery. Here are a few standard post-op care instructions to help you provide the best care for your child.  Keep the dressing or surgical site clean and dry. Do not remove the steri-strips from the dressing.  Mild irritation, bruising, or swelling is common for the first week after the procedure. If your child is nauseous, keep them on a clear fluid diet until it passes. Bathing instructions may differ depending on the operation, but it’s general practice to avoid swimming and bathtubs for seven to 14 days.  Follow all medication instructions closely, and don’t hesitate to contact your doctor if you have any questions. Keep an eye out for any of the following symptoms and call the doctor if they occur.  Fever of 101.5 or higher Excessive bleeding, drainage, or spreading redness Constipation lasting longer than two days Persistent nausea or vomiting More than 20 Years of Experience Caring for Children in Austin Nothing is more important than the health and safety of your child. Some of the more complex gastrointestinal diagnoses can have long-term, negative effects on your child’s ability to function normally. Undergoing surgery while they’re young can greatly improve their quality of life now and prevent even greater risks later in life.  Our team of expert physicians specializes in pediatric surgical treatment. APS surgeons are committed to offering the highest quality care to achieve the best possible patient outcomes through state-of-the-art pediatric surgical services.  If you would like to schedule a consultation for your child or discuss their care with our team, please don’t hesitate to reach out! We are committed to your child’s health and your peace of mind.