Pediatric general surgery
Our surgeons treat the full spectrum of general surgical conditions in children. Whenever possible, we use minimally invasive approaches to shorten recovery and reduce discomfort, while still ensuring the highest level of safety.
When surgery feels bigger than you imagined
We know learning your child needs surgery can bring questions and worry. Our team partners with you through every step, with advanced expertise, thoughtful care plans, and the reassurance that you are never alone in this process.
Conditions we commonly treat include:
- Appendicitis
- Colorectal conditions
- Congenital esophageal & airway conditions
- Congenital abdominal wall defects
- Fetal care
- Gallbladder disease
- Hernias
- Pulmonary hypoplasia
- Thyroid and endocrine disorders
- Trauma
- Tumors and cysts
One team that puts your child at the center
No single provider has all the answers. That’s why your child’s surgeon is part of a coordinated team that includes anesthesiologists, radiologists, gastroenterologists, nurses, dietitians, social workers, and child life specialists. Together, we design a care plan that’s tailored to your child’s needs and focused on the safest, most effective outcome.
Treatment may include:
- Laparoscopic or thoracoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery
- Traditional open surgery when necessary
- Specialized imaging and diagnostics
- Ongoing follow-up in clinic
Robot-assisted pediatric surgery
Learn how we are using minimally invasive robotic tools to improve surgery for children.
Frequently asked questions
Get answers to some common questions about treating children with surgery.
A pediatric surgeon is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating surgical conditions in infants, children, and teens. Pediatric surgeons have additional training focused on children's growing bodies and unique medical needs. They perform procedures ranging from routine operations to complex surgeries for congenital conditions, injuries, and diseases.
Common signs of appendicitis in children include:
- Pain that often starts near the belly button and moves to the lower right side
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
- Abdominal swelling
- Pain that worsens with movement
If you think your child may have appendicitis, seek medical attention right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications.
You may be referred to a pediatric surgeon if your child has:
- Persistent abdominal pain
- Appendicitis
- A hernia
- A mass or cyst
- A congenital condition that may require surgery
- Symptoms that have not improved with other treatments
Early evaluation can help determine whether surgery is needed and what treatment options are available.
Babies and toddlers may need surgery to treat conditions they are born with or develop during early childhood. Common reasons include childhood hernias, undescended testicles, pyloric stenosis, appendicitis, congenital lung or airway conditions, gastrointestinal conditions, and cysts or masses. Childhood hernia repair is one of the most common pediatric surgeries and is often recommended to prevent complications and allow children to grow and develop normally. Pediatric surgeons specialize in caring for growing children and use techniques designed to minimize pain, support healing, and help children recover as quickly as possible.
Yes. Pediatric anesthesia is generally very safe when provided by anesthesiologists who specialize in caring for infants and children. Before surgery, the anesthesia team carefully reviews your child's medical history, age, weight, and overall health to create a personalized anesthesia plan. Throughout the procedure, your child is continuously monitored to help ensure their safety and comfort from start to finish.
It's helpful to understand why surgery is recommended, what the procedure involves, and what to expect before, during, and after the operation. You may want to ask about the benefits and risks of surgery, whether there are alternative treatments, how long recovery will take, how your child's pain will be managed, when they can return to normal activities, and what signs of complications to watch for at home. Your child's surgical team will answer your questions and help you feel prepared every step of the way.
Our locations
