A pediatric neurosurgeon is a specialist who plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of diseases and disorders of the central and peripheral nervous systems in children.
Pediatric neurosurgery, a subspecialty of pediatric surgery, treats various conditions that affect the children’s nervous system through surgery. These disorders can range from brain tumors to congenital malformations or traumatic injuries to the head or spine, among others.
This specialty not only addresses severe conditions but also focuses on situations that may affect a child’s quality of life, mobility, cognitive function, or sensory abilities.
Due to the sensitivity of the central nervous system, the pediatric neurosurgeon possesses advanced surgical skills and in-depth knowledge of the development and growth of a child’s nervous system, factors that directly influence therapeutic approaches and clinical decision-making.
Neurology and Neurosurgery
Pediatric neurology and neurosurgery are two closely related specialties since both deal with the nervous system in children, but from different perspectives.
Pediatric neurosurgery intervenes only when a surgical procedure is necessary to treat problems that cannot be resolved through non-invasive medical treatment.
In contrast, the pediatric neurologist focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and medical management of neurological disorders in children, such as cerebral palsy, movement disorders, epilepsy, or neurodegenerative diseases.
Importance of Neurosurgery
The importance of pediatric neurosurgery lies in several key aspects. On one hand, it addresses disorders that can significantly impact a child’s life; many conditions treated by pediatric neurosurgeons are potentially life-threatening if not managed promptly, such as brain tumors or severe head trauma.
Moreover, neurological conditions can affect a child’s physical, cognitive, and emotional development. Therefore, early and precise intervention can make the difference between a good and a poor quality of life.
Another major contribution of pediatric neurosurgery is improving survival and functionality in children while reducing long-term complications related to neurological disorders.
Neurosurgical Techniques
Pediatric neurosurgery uses innovative techniques that enable less invasive procedures with greater precision.
The most frequently used techniques include:
Endoscopic surgery: allows procedures through minimal incisions, commonly used to treat conditions such as hydrocephalus or brain malformations.
Brain tumor surgery: tumor resection in children is one of the most complex procedures performed by a pediatric neurosurgeon. Depending on the patient’s characteristics, open surgery or less invasive methods may be used.
Spinal neurosurgery: addresses spinal malformations or traumatic injuries to correct deformities or relieve pressure on the spinal cord.
Deep brain stimulation: used to treat severe neurological disorders such as movement disorders; involves implanting electrodes in specific brain regions to modulate neural activity.
Minimally invasive treatments: various techniques are used to manage cerebrovascular disorders, aneurysms, or arteriovenous malformations through small incisions or catheters.
The pediatric neurosurgeon plays a fundamental role in treating neurological disorders in children, offering multiple possibilities to alleviate and manage neurological conditions during childhood and to ensure a healthier life for young patients.
Pediatric Neurosurgeon Near Me
At the ABC Medical Center’s Pediatric Neurosurgery Department, we have a team of highly trained specialists in pediatric neurosurgery dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care for all pediatric neurological needs.
Our pediatric neurosurgeons in Mexico City are committed to your child’s well-being and use the latest technology and most advanced treatments to manage conditions such as hydrocephalus, brain tumors, spina bifida, and more.
Fuentes:
Healthy Children, Kids Health, Cruz Roja
