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Early paediatric surgery offers hope for birth defects with timely diagnosis and treatment
Birth defects can be overwhelming for families, but medical advances in pediatric surgery now offer hope—and often, a complete recovery. Early intervention is key, and many congenital issues can be treated effectively, allowing children to live healthy, normal understand how these surgical corrections impact long-term health and development, India Today spoke with Dr Koushik Herle, Paediatric and Neonatal Surgeon at Manipal Hospital, Sarjapur, who highlighted the importance of timely diagnosis, specialist care, and early SURGICAL CONDITIONS WITH EXCELLENT OUTCOMESInguinal Hernias
A frequent issue in infants and young children, inguinal hernias occur when abdominal tissue pushes into the groin. 'It's a straightforward outpatient surgery,' explains Dr Herle. 'Quick correction prevents complications like bowel obstruction, and children recover rapidly with no long-term effects.'Undescended Testes (Cryptorchidism)In boys, failure of one or both testes to descend into the scrotum requires a minor surgery called orchidopexy, ideally performed between 6 and 12 months of age. 'This early correction ensures proper development and supports future fertility,' says Dr Junction Obstruction (PUJO) & HydronephrosisThis obstruction blocks urine flow from the kidney, causing swelling. If untreated, it may harm kidney function. 'Pyeloplasty, usually done in infancy, has a 90–95% success rate and preserves kidney health,' shares Dr Reflux (VUR)VUR is the backward flow of urine from the bladder to the kidneys, leading to infections and potential damage. 'Mild cases may resolve on their own, but severe forms benefit from surgical correction, with success rates above 95%,' says Dr SURGICAL EMERGENCIES – EARLY ACTION SAVES LIVESadvertisementTracheoesophageal Fistula (TEF) and Esophageal AtresiaThese conditions prevent safe feeding due to abnormal connections between the esophagus and windpipe. 'Prompt surgery within the first days of life is often lifesaving,' explains Dr Herle. 'Over 90% of cases can be successfully treated at experienced centers.'Intestinal Atresias (Bowel Obstructions)When a newborn's intestine is blocked, surgery must be performed immediately. 'It's a critical emergency, but once treated, the baby can resume normal digestion and growth,' notes Dr ANOMALIES – TREATING STRAWBERRY MARKS EARLYInfantile HemangiomasOften called 'strawberry marks,' these benign tumors are usually harmless and fade over time. However, those located near the eyes, lips, or airway—or those that ulcerate—require intervention.'Propranolol, a beta-blocker, has revolutionised treatment,' Dr Herle explains. 'If started early—within the first few weeks or months—it can stop the haemangioma from growing, accelerate its regression, and avoid permanent scarring.'He emphasises the need for early referral: 'Parents should consult a paediatric surgeon or vascular anomaly specialist to ensure optimal cosmetic and medical outcomes.'COMPLEX CONDITIONS THAT REQUIRE SPECIALISED CAREAnorectal Malformations and Bladder ExstrophySome congenital anomalies, such as an abnormally developed rectum or bladder located outside the body, require staged reconstructive surgeries.'These procedures can be extensive,' says Dr Herle, 'but they allow children to achieve good function and lead full lives. Importantly, most of these children have normal intelligence and can go to school, pursue careers, and thrive socially.'WHY A PEDIATRIC SURGEON MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCEadvertisementPediatric surgeons are specially trained to manage surgical conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. Their expertise includes:Child-Specific Knowledge: Children are not just small adults. Their physiology, healing, and conditions are Techniques: From minimally invasive surgeries to delicate neonatal procedures, pediatric surgeons tailor every approach to the child's developing Care: Pediatric surgical teams often include neonatologists, anesthesiologists, and pediatric nurses for holistic care.'Obstetricians and pediatricians play a vital role by referring cases early,' Dr Herle emphasises. 'The sooner a child is evaluated, the better their chances for a full recovery.'EMPOWERING PARENTS WITH KNOWLEDGE AND HOPEWith advances in surgical techniques and neonatal care, many birth defects are now treatable, sometimes with a single operation. Others, while more complex, are manageable with proper planning and Dr Herle concludes, 'Timely surgery can transform a child's life. Early diagnosis, early referral, and a pediatric surgical specialist can make all the difference for the child and the family.
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