What kind of surgery does a neonatal surgeon perform?

A neonatal surgeon is a medical professional who specializes in performing intricate and highly delicate surgical procedures on infants shortly after birth, ranging from early premature babies to newborns up to 28 days old. These surgeries cover a wide spectrum of surgical interventions related to the unique medical conditions and anatomical features exclusive to newborns. Here are some of the surgical procedures commonly performed by a neonatal surgeon:

1. Diaphragmatic Hernia Repair: This surgical procedure is required when a congenital defect known as diaphragmatic hernia is present, where the diaphragm (the muscle separating the chest and abdomen) is not fully developed, leading to the abdominal organs entering the chest cavity. It involves repositioning the abdominal organs into their correct position and repairing the diaphragm.

2. Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC): NEC is a severe condition that affects premature infants, resulting in inflammation, damage, and tissue death in the intestines. Surgical intervention may be necessary to remove damaged intestinal segments and form new connections, ultimately preserving healthy intestinal function.

3. Tracheoesophageal Fistula (TEF): This birth defect occurs when a fistula (abnormal connection) exists between the trachea (windpipe) and esophagus (food pipe), resulting in breathing problems and potentially life-threatening complications. Surgery focuses on separating these structures to restore proper function and prevent aspiration of food into the lungs.

4. Gastrostomy (G-tube): Infants who struggle with feeding due to various medical challenges, such as prematurity or complex anatomical conditions, may require a G-tube. This procedure involves creating a small incision and placing a feeding tube directly into the stomach, allowing for the delivery of liquid nutrition.

5. Omphalocele/Gastroschisis Repair: Neonatal surgeons perform surgical corrections for omphalocele (a defect where the abdominal organs protrude from the bellybutton) and gastroschisis (a defect where the intestines protrude through a hole beside the bellybutton). The goal is to gently place these organs back within the abdomen and reconstruct the abdominal wall.

6. Congenital Heart Defects: Neonatal surgeons are also trained in performing delicate heart procedures on newborns with complex heart defects. These interventions may range from minimally invasive procedures, such as balloon valvuloplasty (widening of the heart valve), to more extensive surgeries, such as the repair of complex heart anomalies, like Tetralogy of Fallot.

7. Pyloric Stenosis Repair: This procedure addresses a condition where a muscle at the outlet of the stomach (the pyloric muscle) thickens, obstructing food from passing through. The surgical intervention aims to enlarge the opening of the muscle, improving digestion.

These surgical procedures are often complex and require a high level of skill, precision, and knowledge about the unique anatomy and physiology of newborns. Neonatal surgeons work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as neonatologists, nurses, and other specialists, to provide comprehensive and compassionate care to critically ill and premature infants.