Pediatric laparoscopic surgery, which can alternatively be referred to as keyhole surgery or minimally invasive surgery, is a type of operation that enables surgeons to address multiple issues in a child through a smaller incision compared to those made during conventional or open surgery. In laparoscopic surgery, a laparoscope is inserted into a tiny incision, providing the doctor with an amplified image of the body’s internal organs on a screen.
Types of Pediatric Laparoscopic Surgery
Laparoscopy can be performed in order to address multiple abdominal and pediatric urologic problems. Depending on the diagnosis of the child, a certain type of laparoscopic surgery can be suggested.
Some common operations include:
- Appendectomy: Removal of the appendix in case of children suffering from appendicitis.
- Hernia surgery: Operations like inguinal and umbilical hernia through a laparoscopic method.
- Gallbladder surgery: Operation of removal of the gallbladder and choledochal cysts.
- Congenital diseases: Laparoscopic operations can be done in diseases like pyloric stenosis, Ureteropelvic Junction obstruction, and Vesicoureteral reflux.
It entirely depends upon the health of the child and the procedure involved.
Pediatric Laparoscopy: Procedure
Before the surgical process, the child needs to fast for a few hours. Moreover, it is advisable to go for routine tests or blood tests to determine the physical condition and suitability of the operation. The parents should make the doctors aware of the past medical history, allergies, and drugs currently taken by the child.
During the procedure, the surgeon makes very tiny incisions of 3mm, 5 mm, or 1 cm based on the type of surgical process. The surgeon inserts the laparoscope through one of the incisions, while he uses special instruments through other tiny incisions.
Is Laparoscopy Safe for Kids?
Many parents wonder if the procedure of minimally invasive surgery is right for their child. Pediatric laparoscopy procedures are done by specialists in pediatric surgery and pediatric urology, who know the anatomical details of children. In the reference, the safety of the procedure is noted to be ensured by having anesthesia skills, technology, and facilities.
For more information on this issue, you can refer to our article Laparoscopic Surgery Is Safe for Kids.
Advantages of Laparoscopic Surgery for Children
One of the biggest benefits of laparoscopic surgery is that it involves incisions that are much smaller than those made by traditional surgical methods. In some cases, this may mean lower levels of post-operative pain and reduced chances of infection. The magnified camera vision also allows doctors to see inside clearly.
Some other possible advantages are:
- Fast recovery and early resumption of daily life activities
- Smaller period of hospitalization
- Lower post-surgery pain
- Small surgical wounds
- Good visibility of internal organs
For simple cases, some procedures such as hernia operations and appendix removals can be done as day-case operations. Some children will be ready for discharge after 24 to 48 hours.
Risks and Recovery
As with any surgery, laparoscopy on children needs proper preparation and management. According to the information, parents need to talk about the risks and benefits associated with the procedure with the doctor and an anesthesiologist prior to the surgery. Preparation may include fasting and pre-surgery examinations to minimize the risk of complications due to the use of anesthesia.
Following surgery, pain control will involve using relatively weak medications. Children are encouraged to start moving as soon as possible to help with their recovery process. The recovery time will vary from case to case.
To learn more about myths regarding pediatric surgery, parents can visit the following resource on Pediatric Surgery Myths.
How Much Does a Pediatric Laparoscopy Surgery Cost in India?
The cost of pediatric laparoscopy surgery may differ from case to case according to the need for specific surgery, health condition of the child, the duration of hospital stay, investigations, anesthesia, and many other things. However, the cost of pediatric laparoscopic surgery in India is not mentioned anywhere in the provided source. Thus, it is advised that the parents should get to know about the cost at the treating hospital.
When Should Parents Seek Opinion from a Pediatric Surgeon?
With the help of a pediatric surgeon, the parents can be informed about the suitability of laparoscopic treatment according to the medical condition of the patient. They can discuss the procedures of treatment, preparation, recovery, and potential risks associated with any procedure.
Those families that need professional guidance in this regard can approach the Best Pediatric surgeon in Hyderabad.
Conclusion
Laparoscopic surgery for children is one of the ways of treatment for a number of diseases of both the abdomen and the urogenital system. There are many advantages of such an operation that include smaller cuts, decreased pain, shortened hospital stay, and quick recovery. Nevertheless, what kind of surgery is needed can vary depending on your child’s case.
If your child needs surgery, you should discuss all of these issues with a pediatric surgeon.
Dr. GM Irfan is a senior Pediatric and Laparoscopic Surgeon with 20+ years of experience in advanced surgical care for infants and children. He is a Gold Medalist in MCh (Paediatric Surgery), & holds MRCS (Edinburgh) and specialized training from IRCAD France.