What Is Pediatric Neurosurgery?

What Is Pediatric Neurosurgery?

Pediatric neurosurgery is a specialized form of medical care for children with conditions that require brain surgery. Generally, pediatric neurologists are the first step toward determining if surgical treatment is required for a child’s condition. Pediatric neurologists will perform examinations and tests to figure out what the exact issue is. If they find something concerning, the pediatric neurologist will then consult with a pediatric neurosurgeon to get their opinion on the matter. 

 

The pediatric neurosurgeon will decide whether surgery is necessary or not. If it is, they will schedule a surgical appointment and continue working with the pediatric neurologist to help the child and their family. The surgeon and the neurologist will also assist each other in creating a recovery plan for the child. Pediatric neurosurgery addresses a wide variety of neurological and developmental conditions with surgical treatment, such as:

 

  • Brain and spinal cord tumors
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Spina bifida
  • Epilepsy
  • Spinal disorders, such as scoliosis and deformity correction
  • Spasticity
  • Movement disorders, such as essential tremor, juvenile Parkinson’s disease, and dystonia
  • Nerve injuries, such as pediatric brachial plexus injuries
  • Cerebrovascular disorders, such as arteriovenous malformation and stroke
  • Hydrocephalus
  • Pituitary tumors and pituitary disorders
  • Craniofacial anomalies and craniosynostosis
  • Chiari malformation
  • Traumatic injuries

 

While pediatric neurosurgery is common in countries like the United States, this level of medical care isn’t always widely available in other countries. According to a study, there are estimated to be just under 2,300 practicing pediatric neurosurgeons around the world. The majority of them—over 85%—are working in high-income and upper-middle-income countries.

 

In response to the limited access to healthcare in the places it is needed most, the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund (PCRF) continues to provide medical and humanitarian care for children and their families through our hospitals, pediatric medical programs, hospital infrastructure projects, and medical missions. These efforts help to ensure that children in need get the vital medical care they require.

 

PCRF is not a political or religious organization. Our mission is to provide medical and humanitarian relief collectively and individually to Arab children throughout the Middle East, regardless of their nationality, politics, or religion. We rely on charitable giving to provide medical treatment, surgeries, safety, shelter, and support to children and their families with conditions requiring pediatric neurosurgery. Find out how you can get involved and help make a difference in children’s lives today!