Is Children’s Brain Surgery Safe?

Children's brain surgery is a complex procedure that requires expertise and is often necessary when a child is dealing with a complex or severe neurological condition. The pediatric neurosurgeon is committed to providing the best and safe possible treatment for the child. Brain surgery demands the highest level of safety because the child is most vulnerable at this stage. Continue reading to discover how neurosurgeon ensures a child's safety during brain surgery.

Ahead of the surgery

Children's brain surgery is considered safe because the pediatric neurosurgeon will provide the least invasive alternative to correct a defect or injury and ensure the child's quick recovery. Before the surgery, the medical professional will ensure that the child is healthy and strong enough to handle the procedure. Taking precautions before surgery improves the rate of recovery and minimizes the risk of infection or any long-lasting damage.

Depending on the condition, they may suggest a nutritional or exercise plan to start that will help build the child's strength. For instance, the doctor may ask the child to stop using over-the-counter medications or herbal solutions, which may be disruptive to anesthetics or the drugs required before, during or after brain surgery. If there are other health issues besides the brain condition being treated, the medical team will coordinate care with the child's other healthcare providers.

Minimizing risks during the surgery

With any surgery, there are general risks and those that are specific to a procedure. The goal is to reduce, if not remove, the complications. Surgical site infection is a real issue in the U.S., which often increases the risk of severe health complications, longer hospital stays and higher healthcare costs. At the medical center, best practices are used to ensure a low risk of infection and increase positive results.

Constant anesthesia supervision: It is normal for parents to be worried about the effects of anesthesia on their child. The anesthesiologists who care for the child are usually trained and experienced in pediatric anesthesia. The surgical team will work to reduce the risk of poor response to the anesthetic, reduce the risk of infection and promote healing.

Perioperative antibiotics: Studies have shown that the use of preventative antibiotics within an hour ahead of surgery on patients without identified infections reduces the incidence of infection.

Advanced navigation and imaging: The surgical team uses advanced imaging equipment to provide real-time images to help the neurosurgeon with the safe placement of instruments and guide their decisions during the surgery. They can see exactly what they are working on and therefore, function with greater accuracy, minimize the degree of radiation exposure to the child and reduce the time that the child spends under anesthesia.

Constant monitoring during surgery: The surgical team will constantly monitor the child's muscles and brain during the surgery. There will be a time to reassess the patient or handle any issue that occurs during surgery.

In conclusion

After children's brain surgery, the pediatric neurosurgeon will provide instructions on managing pain or discomfort. There is no need to worry about the safety of brain surgery. Rest assured that the surgeon will take necessary measures to protect the child.

Request an appointment here: https://www.drloudonpediatricneurosurgery.com or call Dr. William G. Loudon, Pediatric Neurosurgery at (714) 677-9463 for an appointment in our Orange office.

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