Hearing your child may need surgery can feel overwhelming for any parent or guardian. There are questions about safety, pain, and recovery, as well as wanting to know your child is in capable hands. Valley’s pediatric surgeons want you to know that children are incredibly resilient, and with the right care and support, most recover quickly and return to their normal routines faster than expected.
At Valley, pediatric surgery is approached with not only clinical expertise, but compassion, comfort, and a focus on minimizing fear for both children and their caregivers.
What are the most common pediatric surgeries?
Pediatric surgeons perform both emergency and elective procedures at The Valley Hospital in Paramus, New Jersey. One of the most common emergency surgeries is an appendectomy, or the removal of the appendix. This can generally be seen in patients aged 6 to 12, though both younger and older children could need one as well.
Among the most common elective procedures are hernia repairs. In simple terms, a hernia occurs when tissue pushes through an opening where it should not. In children, this can often occur in the belly button or the groin, known as an inguinal hernia. While some hernias may seem harmless, inguinal hernias are typically repaired to prevent future emergencies or complications.
How can parents help children prepare for surgery?
Preparing a child for surgery often starts with helping them feel safe and reassured. Children are most afraid of two things: pain and separation from their parents.
Parents can help by keeping conversations calm, simple, and reassuring. Letting children know they will be asleep during surgery and will not feel anything is often one of the most comforting things they can hear. Reassuring them that their parents will be nearby throughout the process can also ease anxiety.
It is also key for parents to avoid creating unnecessary fear or drama around the experience. Children are highly perceptive and often mirror the emotions of the adults around them. Turning the experience into something manageable – even an “adventure” for younger children – can help make the process feel less intimidating.
Distraction can also be helpful. Focusing on favorite toys, books, games, or activities before surgery can shift attention away from fear and uncertainty.
How does pediatric surgery differ from adult surgery?
Pediatric surgery is very different from surgery performed on adults. The conditions being treated, the reasons for surgery, and the recovery process are often unique to children.
One of the biggest differences is how quickly children recover. Most pediatric patients can return to normal activities much faster than adults. Smaller incisions, less stress on wounds, and the natural resilience of children all contribute to quicker healing.
It is also important to allow children to continue being children after surgery. While recovery instructions should always be followed carefully, many children are capable of safely returning to regular activities sooner than parents may expect.
What are some common misconceptions about pediatric surgery?
One misconception some parents have is that surgery should always be delayed in young children. However, there is no such thing as “too young” for surgery when a child has a medical need, pain, or risk of complications.
Children feel pain just as adults do, which is why pediatric surgical teams work carefully to make the experience as comfortable and non-threatening as possible. At Valley, a child life specialist is available to help prepare children for surgery in age-appropriate ways – such as through therapeutic play or education – designed to reduce fear and anxiety.
The goal is not only successful treatment, but also ensuring children leave the experience feeling safe, supported, and unafraid if they ever need medical care again in the future.
What is some advice for parents whose children are getting surgery for the first time?
For parents whose child is undergoing surgery for the first time, remember that feeling nervous is completely natural. However, children often pick up on parental fear and anxiety.
Remaining calm, confident, and reassuring can have a significant impact on how a child experiences surgery. Being honest, straightforward, and supportive helps children feel secure and trust the people caring for them.
Most importantly, parents should remember they are not alone. A full team of healthcare professionals is working together to support their child every step of the way.
Why should parents choose Valley for pediatric surgery?
At Valley Health System, pediatric surgery is designed around the needs of children and families. From welcoming spaces and child-friendly environments to the support of a child life specialist, every effort is made to minimize stress and maximize comfort.
Families also benefit from receiving high-quality pediatric surgical care close to home. Many parents assume they need to travel far away to receive specialized pediatric treatment, but Valley offers expert care right within the community.
Beyond the surgeon, an entire team works behind the scenes to provide a high-quality experience and outcome for every child. Nurses, anesthesiologists, pathologists, a child life specialist, and many other healthcare professionals all play an important role in a child’s care journey.
And perhaps the greatest sign of success? When children return for follow-up visits having already forgotten any of their fears surrounding surgery and simply feel like themselves again. For more information about pediatric surgery at Valley, please visit ValleyHealth.com/PediatricSurgery.
About the Author
Dr. Lazar is the Chair of Surgical Services for Valley Medical Group and Program Director of Valley’s General Surgery Residency Program.
