The Pediatric Surgical Patient

Abstract

The surgical care of pediatric patients requires familiarization with the physiologic principles that govern homeostasis in neonates, infants, children, and adolescents. These principles must be taken into consideration in the perioperative management and trauma care of pediatric patients. In addition to surgical problems common to all age groups, there are specific pathologic processes requiring surgery (or treatment by a surgeon) that are seen only in pediatric patients. Here we present an overview of the physiologic considerations important for the surgical care of children and a review of the most commonly encountered pediatric surgical conditions, with an emphasis on the acute management and stabilization of the patient. References to current guidelines are being provided when available. This review contains 2 figures, 5 tables, and 62 references. Key words: abdominal wall defects, diaphragmatic hernia, gastroschisis, nonaccidental trauma, nutrition, pediatric surgery, pediatric trauma, perioperative care