A pediatric neurosurgeon is a medical specialist who performs surgeries on the nervous system of children. These doctors are highly skilled professionals who undergo years of rigorous training to develop the skills necessary to treat various neurosurgical conditions in children. In this blog, we will discuss the types of treatments provided by pediatric neurosurgeons.
Overview of Pediatric Neurosurgery
Pediatric neurosurgery is a subspecialty of neurosurgery that focuses on the treatment of conditions related to the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system in children. These conditions can range from congenital abnormalities, such as spina bifida, to acquired conditions, such as brain tumors or traumatic brain injuries.
Types of Treatments Provided by Pediatric Neurosurgeons
Brain Tumor Surgery
One of the most common conditions that pediatric neurosurgeons treat is brain tumors. These tumors can be benign or malignant and can occur in different parts of the brain. Pediatric neurosurgeons work with a team of specialists, including oncologists and radiologists, to develop an individualized treatment plan for each child. The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the tumor as possible while preserving brain function.
Hydrocephalus Treatment
Hydrocephalus is a condition that occurs when there is an excess of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain. This can cause increased pressure on the brain, leading to a range of symptoms, including headaches, nausea, and seizures. Pediatric neurosurgeons treat hydrocephalus by placing a shunt, a tube that drains excess CSF from the brain to another part of the body where it can be absorbed.
Spina Bifida Repair
Spina bifida is a congenital condition that occurs when the neural tube, which forms the brain and spinal cord, fails to close properly during fetal development. This can result in a range of problems, including paralysis and bladder and bowel dysfunction. Pediatric neurosurgeons can repair spina bifida through surgery, which involves closing the opening in the spinal column and repairing any damage to the spinal cord.
Craniosynostosis Correction
Craniosynostosis is a condition that occurs when the bones of a baby's skull fuse prematurely, which can lead to abnormal head shape and pressure on the brain. Pediatric neurosurgeons can correct this condition by performing surgery to separate the fused bones and reshape the skull.
Epilepsy Surgery
Epilepsy is a condition that causes seizures, which can be debilitating and life-threatening. Pediatric neurosurgeons can perform epilepsy surgery to remove the part of the brain that is causing seizures or to place electrodes on the brain to monitor and control seizures.
Chiari Malformation Surgery
Chiari malformation is a condition in which the brain tissue extends into the spinal canal. This can cause a range of symptoms, including headaches, neck pain, and weakness in the arms and legs. Pediatric neurosurgeons can treat Chiari malformation through surgery, which involves removing a small portion of the skull to relieve pressure on the brain.
Conclusion
Pediatric neurosurgeons can provide life-saving surgery and medical treatment for neurological conditions such as hydrocephalus, brain tumors, spinal cord injuries, and neurological birth defects. Neurosurgical treatment can help children with these conditions lead a normal, healthy life. At the NJ Craniofacial Center, our team of pediatric neurosurgeons, neurologists, radiologists, Orthodontics and Otolaryngologists work together to provide comprehensive care for children with neurosurgical conditions. We strive to provide the best care possible to ensure that each child reaches their full potential.
