Frequently asked questions about Pediatric Reconstructive Surgery.
What sort of dietary restrictions will my child need to follow before and after the surgery?
The medical staff will give you detailed instructions outlining what your child will and will not be able to eat before and after the surgery. The factors vary greatly depending on local factors.
How long will my child be in the hospital after surgery?
If your child is having an outpatient procedure, he or she will probably be in and out of the hospital in the same day.
For inpatient procedures, the length of stay varies, depending on the procedure and your child's rate of recovery. If your child has major abdominal or thoracic surgery, he/she will probably be in the hospital for five to seven days. If the doctors' and nurses' postoperative instructions are followed closely, the child will likely be able to return home sooner.
Length of stay often varies from child to child, and depends upon the exact procedure performed.
How much should I tell my child before hand about surgery?
It is important that you be honest with your child. Let your child know what's going to happen - be careful not to use words that will make the surgery sound scary. Remember to let your child know you will be nearby throughout the entire hospital visit.
Can my child have two different procedures done at the same time?
It is possible for more than one procedure to be accomplished at the same time, as long as it is considered to be safe for the child.
What is a hernia? Can the operation to fix a hernia make my son sterile?
An inguinal hernia is an opening in the muscle of the groin in which a portion of the intestine (or ovary, in girls), can pass through.
It may be large or small, and usually appears as a lump or swelling in the groin or scrotum in boys, or in the labia in girls.
An umbilical hernia develops when the muscles in the abdomen, around the belly button, do not fully close before birth, and some intestine protrudes into the opening.
The operation is a perfectly safe procedure and will not cause a male to become sterile. Fixing a hernia can prevent damage to the testicle.
When can my child resume full activity?
This depends primarily on the procedure being performed. Be aware that recovery timelines can vary from child to child.
Your child's doctor will be able to give you specific information about when your child can resume normal activity.
How soon after surgery may I see my child?
You may see your child when the medical team determines that he is in a stable condition in the recovery room. This is normally 30 to 45 minutes after surgery, which is usually when the child is just becoming aware of where he or she is.
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