Transitioning Pediatric Surgical Patients to Adult Surgical Care

Abstract

Over the past 50 years, there has been a significant improvement in the outcomes for children with many complex congenital or acquired surgical conditions such as heart disease, gastroschisis, diaphragmatic hernia, anorectal malformations, spina bifida, and intestinal failure. As a result, the adult health care system is receiving a growing number of young adults, with chronic surgical issues, requiring lifelong assistance within a multidisciplinary model of care. In this emerging scenario, transitional care is vital for adolescents and young adults with active chronic surgical and medical problems who will require care from knowledgeable and well-trained adult physicians. In 2002, the American Academy of Pediatrics established that “the goal of a planned health care transition is to maximize lifelong functioning and well-being for all youth” 1(p1304) and that transitional care is “a purposeful, planned process that addresses the medical, psychosocial and educational/vocational needs of adolescents and young adults with chronic physical and medical conditions as they move from childcentered to adult-oriented healthcare systems.” 2(p571) An