What is Pediatric Neurosurgery?

Children can face many health problems during the most sensitive periods of their physical and mental development. Brain and nervous system diseases are among these problems, and early intervention is a critical factor determining children's quality of life. Pediatric neurosurgery is a specialized field that covers the surgical treatment of brain, spinal cord, and nervous system disorders in pediatric age group patients. In this article prepared by Prof. Dr. Özgür Taşkapılıoğlu, you can find detailed information about conditions requiring brain surgery in children, treatment methods, and the process in this field.

What is Pediatric Neurosurgery?

Pediatric neurosurgery is a pediatric specialty that undertakes the diagnosis and treatment of congenital or acquired diseases occurring in the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system. Since children's anatomical structures, physiologies, and developmental processes are different from adults, surgeons working in this field must specialize in both pediatrics and neurosurgery.

Diseases Requiring Brain Surgery in Children

Pediatric neurosurgery offers solutions to a wide range of diseases:

1. Congenital Anomalies

Some children are born with congenital brain or spinal cord anomalies. Some of these can be listed as follows:
• Spina Bifida: A condition where the spinal cord is exposed and requires surgical intervention.
• Craniosynostosis: A deformity caused by the early closure of skull bones.

2. Hydrocephalus

This condition, which occurs as a result of excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid, can increase pressure on the brain and lead to developmental problems. Fluid accumulation is controlled by placing a shunt.

3. Brain Tumors

Brain tumors in children can be both benign and malignant. Surgical treatment is planned according to the size, location, and type of the tumor.

4. Epilepsy and Movement Disorders

Surgical interventions may be required in cases of drug-resistant epilepsy.

5. Head Traumas

Head traumas resulting from falls and accidents in children are one of the intervention areas of brain surgery.

6. Spinal Cord Tumors and Injuries

Tumors or traumatic injuries in the spinal cord may require surgical treatment.

7. Infections and Inflammations

Infections affecting the brain and spinal cord may necessitate surgical intervention.

Methods Used in Pediatric Neurosurgery

The methods used in the surgical treatment of children are carried out with modern technologies and special pediatric techniques:

1. Microsurgical Techniques

Microsurgical methods that enable working in small and sensitive areas provide safe results in children.

2. Endoscopic Surgery

These surgeries performed with minimally invasive techniques create less traumatic effects in children and accelerate the healing process.

3. Robotic Assisted Surgery

Robotic systems are effectively used in interventions requiring high precision in the nervous system of pediatric patients.

4. Shunt and Catheter Placement

A shunt or catheter is placed to provide fluid drainage in conditions such as hydrocephalus.

How Does the Brain Surgery Process Work in Children?

The brain surgery process in children is different from adults and requires a multidisciplinary approach:

1. Diagnosis and Evaluation: The diagnosis process in children begins with imaging methods such as MRI, CT, and ultrasound. The child's general health status and developmental characteristics are also evaluated.

2. Communication with the Family: Before the surgical intervention, detailed information about the process is given to the family and their concerns are addressed.

3. Surgical Intervention: Special equipment and methods suitable for children's physiological differences are used during the operation.

4. Post-Operative Care: Intensive care and rehabilitation process support the child's recovery process.

The Importance of Pediatric Neurosurgery

Brain and neurosurgery in children is of vital importance not only for physical health but also for the child's mental and emotional development. Timely interventions can positively affect the child's quality of life and future potential.

Pediatric neurosurgery is a critical area for pediatric patients to lead a healthy life. Accurate diagnosis, timely intervention, and comprehensive care are vital to minimize the risks arising from nervous system diseases in children. If you think your child is experiencing a problem with their nervous system, do not neglect to seek support from an expert pediatric neurosurgeon. Pediatric Neurosurgeon Prof. Dr. Özgür Taşkapılıoğlu, who serves in Bursa, wishes you healthy days.