Unlike adult thoracic surgery, pediatric thoracic surgery demands a special approach due to the delicate anatomy and unique needs of children. The goal is always to restore normal function, improve quality of life, and ensure healthy development.

As a pediatric surgeon in Pune, I have seen how timely surgical intervention can correct life-threatening problems, relieve discomfort, and allow children to live healthy, active lives.

What is Pediatric Thoracic Surgery?

Pediatric thoracic surgery involves surgical treatment of diseases and abnormalities in the chest area of infants, children, and adolescents. It can be needed for:

• Congenital abnormalities – Conditions present at birth.
• Trauma-related injuries – Accidents affecting the chest.
• Infections or tumors – Affecting the lungs, chest wall, or mediastinum (central chest area).

These surgeries are often performed by specialized pediatric surgeons trained in managing children’s unique anatomy and physiology.

Types of Pediatric Thoracic Surgery

Depending on the condition, pediatric thoracic surgery can be classified into several types:

1. Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) Repair

A defect in the diaphragm allows abdominal organs to move into the chest cavity, affecting lung development. Surgery involves repairing the diaphragm to restore normal anatomy.

2. Pulmonary Surgery

This includes removal of abnormal lung tissue caused by congenital malformations, infections, or tumors. Examples include:

• Lobectomy (removing a lobe of the lung)
• Segmentectomy (removing a segment of the lung)

3. Chest Wall Deformity Correction

Conditions like pectus excavatum (sunken chest) or pectus carinatum (protruding chest) may require corrective surgery for cosmetic and functional improvement.

4. Mediastinal Tumor Removal

Tumors in the mediastinum (the space between the lungs) can be benign or malignant and often require surgical removal.

5. Esophageal Surgery

Conditions like esophageal atresia or strictures (narrowing) may require reconstruction or widening of the esophagus.

6. Thoracoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive)

Modern pediatric thoracic surgery often uses video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) a minimally invasive approach with small incisions, quicker recovery, and reduced pain.

When is Pediatric Thoracic Surgery Needed?

Some signs and conditions that may require evaluation for thoracic surgery include:

• Difficulty breathing or persistent cough
• Chest pain or deformity
• Recurrent lung infections
• Abnormal findings on chest X-ray, CT scan, or MRI
• Prenatal diagnosis of chest abnormalities
• Tumors detected in the chest region

The Pediatric Thoracic Surgery Procedure – Step by Step

While every surgery is tailored to the child’s condition, the general process includes:

1. Diagnosis and Evaluation

• Detailed medical history and physical examination.
• Imaging studies (X-ray, CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound).
• Pulmonary function tests, if age-appropriate.

2. Preoperative Preparation

• Counseling parents about the surgery, risks, and benefits.
• Planning anesthesia and postoperative care with pediatric anesthesiologists.

3. Surgery

• Performed under general anesthesia.
• May be open surgery or minimally invasive (thoracoscopic).
• Duration varies from 1–6 hours, depending on complexity.

4. Postoperative Care

• Monitoring in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU).
• Pain management and breathing exercises.
• Gradual return to normal activities.

Risks and Safety in Pediatric Thoracic Surgery

While any surgery has risks, modern pediatric thoracic surgery is generally safe in specialized centers. Possible risks include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Breathing difficulties
• Recurrence of the condition
• Rare anesthesia-related complications

Having surgery performed by an experienced pediatric surgeon in a hospital with advanced pediatric facilities significantly reduces these risks.

Benefits of Pediatric Thoracic Surgery

• Restores normal function – Improves breathing, feeding, and physical activity.
• Corrects deformities – Enhances appearance and confidence.
• Prevents long-term complications – Stops the progression of certain conditions.
• Improves quality of life – Allows children to participate in normal activities without restrictions.

Life After Pediatric Thoracic Surgery

Recovery time depends on the type of surgery performed. Minimally invasive procedures may require only a few days in the hospital, while complex open surgeries may take longer.

Children usually recover well, and with proper follow-up, they can lead active, healthy lives. Regular check-ups ensure the condition does not recur and that the child’s growth and development remain on track.

Advanced Thoracic Surgery for a Healthier Future in Children

Pediatric thoracic surgery plays a crucial role in treating conditions that affect the chest in children. With advancements in minimally invasive techniques, anesthesia, and intensive care, outcomes have greatly improved, giving children a better chance at a healthy future.

As Dr. Vishesh Dikshit – Pediatric Surgeon in Pune, my focus is always on delivering safe, compassionate, and effective surgical care that helps children live their fullest lives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is pediatric thoracic surgery safe for young children?
   Yes. When performed by trained pediatric surgeons in well-equipped hospitals, these surgeries are generally safe and have high success rates.
2. How long will my child be in the hospital after surgery?
   It depends on the type of surgery—minimally invasive procedures may require 3–5 days, while more complex cases may take 1–2 weeks.
3. Will my child have visible scars?
   Minimally invasive techniques leave small scars, which fade over time. Open surgeries may leave a larger scar but are necessary for certain conditions.
4. Can thoracic conditions be treated without surgery?
   Some mild cases can be managed medically, but many congenital or structural conditions require surgery for complete correction.
5. How soon can my child return to normal activities?
   Most children can resume light activities within a few weeks, but strenuous activities should be avoided until cleared by the surgeon.

As a parent, it is natural to have concerns about your child’s health and development. When it comes to pediatric healthcare, you want nothing but the best for your little one. In this blog, we will delve into the symptoms and causes of ambiguous genitalia in children, and why seeking the care of a renowned pediatric specialist is crucial.

Understanding Ambiguous Genitalia

Ambiguous genitalia is a congenital condition in which a newborn’s external genitals do not have the typical appearance of either a boy or a girl. Instead, the child’s genitalia may appear atypical or somewhere in between male and female. This condition can be emotionally distressing for parents, but it is important to remember that it is a relatively rare condition.

Symptoms of Ambiguous Genitalia

1. External Genital Appearance: One of the primary indicators of ambiguous genitalia is that the external genitalia do not clearly resemble those of a typical boy or girl. The child’s genitalia may have characteristics of both genders or appear completely different.
2. Undescended Testes: In some cases, one or both testes may not be fully descended, further complicating the evaluation of the child’s sex.
3. Urogenital Openings: The location of the urethral opening can also vary. In boys, this opening is typically at the tip of the penis, while in girls, it is typically below the clitoris.

Causes of Ambiguous Genitalia

Ambiguous genitalia can have various underlying causes, including:

1. Hormonal Imbalances: An imbalance in the hormones responsible for sexual development during pregnancy can lead to ambiguous genitalia. This may be due to issues with the adrenal glands, placenta, or other factors.
2. Genetic Factors: Certain genetic conditions, such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia, can result in ambiguous genitalia.
3. Chromosomal Abnormalities: Conditions like Turner syndrome and Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (AIS) involve chromosomal abnormalities that affect sexual development.
4. Medication or Hormonal Exposure: If the mother takes specific medications or hormones during pregnancy, it can affect the development of the child’s genitals.
5. Idiopathic: In some cases, the exact cause of ambiguous genitalia may remain unknown.

If your child is born with ambiguous genitalia, seeking the expertise of a trusted pediatric surgeon is essential.

Conclusion

Ambiguous genitalia is a challenging condition for both parents and children. However, with the right medical care and support, many children with this condition can lead healthy, fulfilling lives.

Types of Congenital Anomalies in Children

Congenital anomalies can affect any part of the body, and the severity can range from mild to life-threatening. Some common types of congenital anomalies include:

• Heart defects
• Neural tube defects
• Cleft lip and palate
• Limb abnormalities
• Gastrointestinal abnormalities
• Lung abnormalities
• Renal and Urinary system abnormalities

Causes of Congenital Anomalies

The causes of congenital anomalies can vary, and in some cases, the exact cause is unknown. However, some factors that can contribute to the development of congenital anomalies include:

• Genetic mutations or abnormalities
•  Exposure to environmental toxins or substances during pregnancy
•  Infections during pregnancy
•  Maternal health conditions, such as diabetes

Role of Pediatric Surgery in Congenital Anomalies

Pediatric surgery plays a vital role in the treatment of congenital anomalies. Depending on the type and severity of the anomaly, surgery may be required to correct the defect. Some common pediatric surgeries include:

• Congenital heart defect surgery
• Cleft lip and palate repair
•  Limb lengthening and reconstruction
•  Gastrointestinal surgery for abnormalities such as bowel obstruction or malrotation
•  Surgeries on the lung/esophagus
•  Surgeries of the kidney, urinary bladder, or urethra

In addition to surgery, pediatric surgeons also play a crucial role in the diagnosis and management of congenital anomalies. They work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as pediatricians, geneticists, and neonatologists, to provide comprehensive care for children with congenital anomalies.

Conclusion

Congenital anomalies can be a challenging issue for children and their families. However, with early diagnosis, proper management, and the expertise of a pediatric surgeon in Pune, the outcomes for children with congenital anomalies can be improved. If you suspect that your child may have a congenital anomaly, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly. Contact Dr. Vishesh Dikshit the Best pediatric surgeon in Pune to discuss the best course of action for your child.

About Dr.Vishesh Dikshit

Dr. Vishesh Dikshit graduated from Govt. Medical College, Calicut, Kerala, in 2004 with an MBBS degree in medicine. In 2012, he received an MS in General Surgery from Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College in Sion, Mumbai, and in 2015, he received an MCh in Pediatric Surgery from Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College in Sion, Mumbai.

When a kid is born with an anorectal abnormality, what factors contribute to its development?

Different organ systems are forming and maturing while an unborn kid grows in the uterus of its mother. Early in pregnancy, the lower part of the intestine begins to take shape. When a kid is still in the womb, the cells that will become the bottom half of the large intestine and the urinary tract are all clumped together.
The first three months of pregnancy or gestation are crucial for a successful outcome. Both the rectum and the anus need these processes in order to separate from the urinary system and mature normally. These procedures don’t always work as planned. If this occurs, the rectum or anus may not mature properly. It’s usually a mystery as to what sets off these occurrences.

How does one go about helping a kid who has been diagnosed with anorectal malformations?

Your child’s treatment will be tailored to his or her specific symptoms, age, and overall health. The severity of the illness is also a factor.
The vast majority of infants born with anorectal malformations will need surgical intervention. It’s impossible to predict the kind or quantity of necessary operations. The answer is conditional on the nature of your child’s issues. Some examples of such issues are as follows:
• It’s possible that they won’t have to undergo surgery. Anal dilation is a technique that may be performed on occasion. This aids in the elongation of the anal muscles, which facilitates bowel movement.
• If they have an anal membrane, surgical removal is a possibility. In the event that the anal channel becomes constricted, dilations may be necessary.
• Some conditions may need multiple and complex surgeries to make it possible for your baby to pass stools normally.

About Dr.Vishesh Dikshit

Dr. Vishesh Dikshit graduated from Govt. Medical College, Calicut, Kerala, in 2004 with an MBBS degree in medicine. In 2012, he received an MS in General Surgery from Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College in Sion, Mumbai, and in 2015, he received an MCh in Pediatric Surgery from Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College in Sion, Mumbai.

 Care for New Born Baby in Winters

Doctors suggest different baby care tips, and parents must follow them to keep their babies cozy and healthy during the winter.

Whole body massage- Body message is one of the most effective ways to warm your baby during winter. Different massage oils are available in the market; hence, you can use any baby massage oil as per your doctor’s recommendation. You need to use lukewarm oil and massage it thoroughly all over the body of your baby. This process will enhance blood circulation and give your baby warmth during the winter.
Proper winter dress- Parents need to pay attention to the winter dress of their baby. The winter dress of the babies should be soft and made of breathable fabric. An expert pediatrician will advise layering your baby’s clothes to keep them warm during the winter.

Cleaning and bathing-  Parents may decide not to bathe their babies during winter, but it is a wrong decision. Doctors always suggest properly bathing newborns to maintain hygiene.

Sunlight- Sunlight is a source of Vitamin D, and parents need to keep their babies in sunlight so that their babies can get enough of it.

Vaccination- Vaccination helps to keep your baby safe from varied diseases during winter.

Parents can consult with Dr. Vishesh Dikshit the Best Pediatric Specialist in Pune to get the best suggestion relating to care for New Born Baby in Winters

About Dr.Vishesh Dikshit

Dr. Vishesh Dikshit graduated from Govt. Medical College, Calicut, Kerala, in 2004 with an MBBS degree in medicine. In 2012, he received an MS in General Surgery from Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College in Sion, Mumbai, and in 2015, he received an MCh in Pediatric Surgery from Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College in Sion, Mumbai.

It is a common belief that children do not have a mental strain, which is why parents ignore their emotional requirements, to a great extent sometimes. This assumption is completely wrong, and parents must always try to support their children’s emotional health.

How to support the emotional and mental health of your child?

Every human is complex and thinks and feels differently. It might not be easy to understand your child’s emotional state and give them the right support. The following points will help you do so:

• Look for behavioral changes

It is quite common for children not to be able to open up with their parents about many things. In this case, it becomes your responsibility to look for behavioral changes and get into action.

• Gain their trust

Having a trustworthy person in life is very important for every person in this world. This factor helps them share their feelings comfortably and confide in them.

• Talk to them

Open communication has a lot to do with gaining your child’s trust. Make them comfortable, listen to them, do not scold them, and try to understand them.

• Foster healthy habits

As already mentioned, mental and physical health are connected. Therefore, encouraging your child to exercise, eat healthily, and practice stress management will help keep them emotionally fit.

• Give them moral support

Always give moral support to your child by boosting their confidence and making them feel loved.

Conclusion

Therefore, being a good parent also requires looking after the mental health of your child. If you need any tips or consultancy on this purpose, you can contact Dr. Vishesh Dikshit in Pune.

About Dr.Vishesh Dikshit

Dr. Vishesh Dikshit graduated from Govt. Medical College, Calicut, Kerala, in 2004 with an MBBS degree in medicine. In 2012, he received an MS in General Surgery from Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College in Sion, Mumbai, and in 2015, he received an MCh in Pediatric Surgery from Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College in Sion, Mumbai.

Every baby has its unique nature. For example, some babies poo after they take every meal. Then, again, some babies poo once in a few days. Well, any timing is fine unless the baby feels uneasy. Once you notice that your baby feels pain during poo and it is hard & dry poo, you need to consult with Dr. Vishesh Dikshit.

How do you know that your baby is constipated?

The common symptom of your baby suffering from constipation is hard and dry poo. You will also notice that your baby feels strained while passing the poo. In addition, your baby will feel irritated. While suffering from constipation, your baby may eat less or feed less than normal. You will notice a crack around the anus of your baby, and the crack may bleed.

Causes of Constipation in Babies

Parents sometimes may notice that their baby has a dry and hard poo, which is a sign of constipation. However, the prime reason for constipation in babies is the change in diet. Normally when a baby’s diet gets changed from breastfed to top feeds, or babies are exposed to a new food, they can suffer from constipation.

Treating constipation at home

Experts suggest parents increase fluid intake in kids. Once the baby is six months old parents can add some fruits to their baby’s diet, like peas, apricots, etc., to increase kids’ fiber intake. Also, you can add vegetables, whole grains, broccoli, brown rice, etc for smooth bowel movement.

About Dr. Vishesh Dikshit

Dr. Vishesh Dikshit is Pediatric Surgeon in Pune with expertise in all types of pediatric surgical procedures. He is adept in the art of performing minimally invasive surgery, Laparotomy and Laparoscopic surgeries, endoscopy surgery, Minimal Access Urinary Stone Management, Day care procedures like Hernia, Hydrocele, and Circumcision. managing urological disorders in kids. Book your appointment today with Dr. Vishesh Dikshit for any queries about your child’s condition.

• Hernia Repair

Hernias occur when an organ or piece of tissue pushes through a weakened area in the abdominal wall. Hernias must be corrected soon after diagnosis else it can sometimes complicate. The surgeon makes a small incision, pushes the tissue back into place, repairs the defect, and closes the opening with stitches or surgical tape.

• Hydrocele Surgery

A hydrocele is a fluid-filled sac surrounding one or both of the testicles, which causes swelling and discomfort in the scrotum. This condition may disappear by itself by around one to one and a half years of age. After that, it definitely needs surgery to correct it. A pediatric surgeon is the best person to judge when to operate.

• Tongue Tie Correction

If a baby has a tight frenulum (a tongue ligament), then he/she might have trouble latching on to the mother’s breast. Babies may also develop impaired speech due to this condition. A frenulectomy is a simple procedure that cuts the lingual frenulum and allows normal tongue movement, facilitating breastfeeding and speech development.

• Undescended Testes

It is a condition in which one or both testes do not descend into the scrotum. It occurs in about 3 percent of full-term male infants and 30 percent of premature infants. Correction must be done by 7-8 months of age.

• Circumcision

This is the surgical removal of the foreskin that covers the head of the penis. Other than for religious reasons, it is performed in children who have very tight phimosis or who get repeated urinary tract infections.

Conclusion:

Babies’ bodies and bones are very soft, so they can get injured easily. If a baby has a serious injury, surgery may be necessary to prevent permanent damage. Most of these surgeries are minimally invasive because babies’ bodies are small and easy to operate on. If you need more detail, reach out to the Best Pediatric Surgeon in Pune – Dr. Vishesh Dikshit.

About Dr. Vishesh Dikshit 

Constipation with Kidney Problems

Bloating and stomach ulcers are more likely to occur if one consumes a lot of fast food full of hazardous materials and chemicals. Increased sodium intake (from fast food) causes the body to retain more water, which may lead to a swollen or bloated abdomen as well as stomach pain.

Constipation Risks Associated with a Fast-Food Diet

For a healthy digestive tract, dietary fiber contained in fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grain products like wheat and rice, is essential. They not only keep the digestive system functioning, but they also aid in the elimination of waste from the body. Fast food, on the other hand, is deficient in fiber and, as a result, is a poor choice for a healthy diet. As a consequence, constipation occurs, which produces pain in the stomach.

It increases the risk of liver disease

When you eat too much fast food, your liver is also harmed. Fast food intake causes liver disease, and if you believe that your stomach doesn’t have to endure the consequences, you are mistaken. There may be a bloated belly as a result of liver illness or liver damage, as well as swollen and/or bleeding veins surrounding the esophagus, the stomach, and the digestive process is disrupted.

Types of Hernia in Children

Each kind of hernia requires a special kind of medical attention. Some of these hernias in children are as follows.

• Epigastric Hernia

Epigastric Hernias occur when a part of the intestine or omentum bulges through the muscles of the abdomen between the chest and the belly button.

These hernias are usually small and appear with no particular symptoms except occasional pain. The large ones, however, cause symptoms, and they do not heal by themselves, but they can be treated with surgery.

• Umbilical Hernia

Umbilical Hernias occur when the part of the intestine or omentum bulges through the wall of the abdomen inside their belly button. It can appear as a bump underneath the belly button. It is not usually painful but sometimes it can cause serious problems if it becomes irreducible.

It usually closes by itself by the time the child turns two. If it does not go away, doctors will treat it with the help of surgery.

• Inguinal Hernia

Inguinal Hernias happen when the part of a child’s intestine or omentum pushes through the opening in the abdomen’s lower part. It is caused by the presence of a patent processes vaginalis. Inguinal hernias are notorious for causing serious complications must be promptly treated. Treatment is done with a surgery

Symptoms of Complicated Hernia in Children

• A round and full belly
• Vomiting
• Fussiness
• Soreness and belly pain
• Fever
• Discoloration and redness near the part of the hernia

Treatment Option

Inguinal, Umbilical, and Epigastric Hernias in children can be treated with surgery by Dr.Vishesh Dikshit at Umarji Mother and Child Care Hospital, Pune