Pediatric and neonatal surgeries with a special focus on minimally invasive laparoscopic and thoracoscopic procedures, many of which have been performed for the first time in Iran and Isfahan province, and continue to be successfully performed.
Additional Technical Details
1- The Concept of Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) in Pediatrics
Unlike adults, in children and especially neonates, every millimeter of body tissue is critical. In laparoscopic and thoracoscopic methods, instead of making large incisions, the surgeon inserts a camera and surgical instruments into the body by creating a few small holes (ports) with a diameter of 3 to 5 mm.
Physiological Advantage: The child’s metabolic response to trauma (surgical stress) is significantly lower in minimally invasive procedures, leading to faster recovery and reduced need for opioid analgesics.
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Laparoscopy in Children
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Laparoscopy in Children
This method is used to access intra-abdominal and pelvic organs.
- Mechanism: Creating a workspace by insufflating carbon dioxide gas (Pneumoperitoneum) and utilizing high-magnification lenses.
Common Applications:
Appendectomy: Removal of the appendix, even in perforated cases.
Management of Undescended Testis (UDT): Diagnosis and correction of testes retained within the inguinal canal or abdomen.
- Gastric and Esophageal Surgeries: Such as correcting gastroesophageal reflux disease (Nissen fundoplication) and treating pyloric stenosis.
Splenectomy and Cholecystectomy: Removal of the spleen or gallbladder.
Hirschsprung’s Disease: Biopsy and pull-through procedures.
3. Thoracoscopy / VATS (Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery)
3. Thoracoscopy / VATS (Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery)
This technique is the thoracic equivalent of laparoscopy, presenting significantly greater technical challenges due to the constant movement and presence of the heart and lungs.
