For parents, discovering that their child may need to visit an infant brain surgeon can be alarming and create significant apprehension. We understand that the thought of a child going to surgery is going to create incredible amounts of concern. However, when a child visits a brain surgeon like ourselves, they are going to be in good hands. The amount of training a physician has to undergo to provide infant brain surgery is incredibly extensive, as is the clinical experience they will receive before operating on a child themselves. As such, parents can feel better knowing that they are seeing a highly skilled specialist.
Reasons patients visit an infant brain surgeon
There are multiple reasons that a brain surgeon may be called in to assist a child. These include:
#1. Brain tumors
If a brain tumor is discovered, it is likely that it will need to be removed as quickly as it is safe to do so. This is because a brain tumor could be cancerous and if left inside the body, those cancerous cells could spread, causing further damage. Even if the tumor is not cancerous, allowing it to grow within the brain could lead to developmental delays and problems, in addition to physical challenges and restrictions.
#2. Seizures and epilepsy
When parts of the brain receive an electrical signal that is abnormal, it can correct interrupt the normal functions of the brain, causing a seizure. With epilepsy, patients are more likely to have seizures and if they have two or more, could be considered epileptic. There are many types of seizures so it is important to be diagnosed appropriately. Then based on the type of seizure and the age of the child, treatments can be recommended. In some cases, treatment may involve surgery.
#3. Spina bifida
This is a birth defect where the spinal nerves and cord could be exposed. There are around 1,500 babies born with spina bifida every year in the United States. This condition must be treated with surgery or it could lead to long-term problems.
#4. Cerebral palsy
This is a group of brain disorders that will impact the ability for the brain to communicate with the muscles. As such, children with cerebral palsy may have problems with coordination and may even experience some paralysis. It is also common for the children to suffer from seizures, respiratory and bladder problems. As an infant brain surgeon, we are often called in to participate in the treatment plan for addressing issues specifically related to the brain and spinal cord.
Schedule an appointment
Typically, patients are referred to our office to speak with an infant brain surgeon after having a discussion with a pediatrician or family doctor. However, we are happy to work with patients directly as well, if they think that our services could be helpful. To find out what we can do for you and your child, call and schedule an appointment today. As an infant brain surgeon, we are highly trained and experienced and will do our best to help your child to live the best possible life.