4 Common Conditions Treated by Infant Neurosurgery

Infant neurosurgery is surgery of the nervous system but by physicians specializing in infant surgery. Neurosurgery is a medical specialty where doctors can diagnose and treat the spine, brain, and peripheral nerves. While many people think of brain surgeons when they think of neurosurgeons, neurosurgeons handle more than just the brain.

Since infants have delicate, developing brains, doctors may face particular difficulties performing operations. Infant neurosurgeons are educated in treating conditions that occur in children and working with tiny, developing brains.

Conditions treated by infant neurosurgery

Pediatric neurosurgeons treat infants and young children with various conditions. Neurosurgery may treat nervous system problems, spinal and head deformities, and brain, spine, and nerves injuries. While there may be numerous conditions infant neurosurgeons can treat, four common afflictions occur in infancy.

Brain tumors

Pediatric brain tumors may begin in the brain or close tissues. Generally, brain tumors occur due to mutations in the DNA. The cells grow and divide at a high rate and live when healthy cells do not. Tumors may be cancerous or benign.

Infants with brain tumors may undergo neurosurgery. Pediatric neurosurgeons analyze the size, location, and shape of the tumor before choosing the right option to remove or reduce the growth.

Cerebral palsy

While many people know about cerebral palsy, they may not know all of the treatment options available before they have an infant with cerebral palsy. CP is a condition that affects movement, posture, and motor skills development. Some doctors advise infant neurosurgery because when corrected early, the state may not interfere with normal development. Following the surgery, infants require regular checkups to ensure proper growth.

One of the most common surgeries children undergo is the insertion of a baclofen pump. The pump delivers relaxants to the spine to reduce spasticity.

Craniosynostosis

If a baby's skull closes too early, craniosynostosis may occur. The condition may lead to complications, including head deformities, seizures, and pressure on the brain. The surgery to treat craniosynostosis may correct abnormalities in head shape and allow the brain to continue to grow normally. Most infants require the surgery within the first two years of their lives.

Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is an excess of fluid within a baby's skull. The condition may cause a baby's head to swell to make room for the fluid. Without treatment, the patient's brain may undergo severe damage. While some doctors may drain excess fluid, it does not always treat the condition. If draining the liquid does not work, then the professional may need to perform infant neurosurgery and place a shunt.

Conclusion

For infants with any neurological condition, infant neurosurgery may be an option. Many physicians perform operations during infancy because it can help ensure typical growth and development. When it comes to patients who may require neurosurgery, they may suffer from various conditions, including brain tumors, cerebral palsy, craniosynostosis, and hydrocephalus.

Infant neurological disorders can be a challenge to handle, but working with a qualified pediatric neurosurgeon can make all of the difference. Contact our office today for more information on treatment options.

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