Paediatric Neurosurgery: A Guide for Parents

Conditions requiring neurosurgery in childhood differ from those in adults.

Symptoms to Watch Out For

In babies: Rapid growth in head circumference, a tense/bulging fontanelle, downward deviation of the eyes (setting sun sign), irritability, feeding difficulties, developmental delay.

In children: Morning headaches (especially if accompanied by vomiting), imbalance, vision problems, decline in school performance, personality changes, new-onset seizures.

Guide for Parents

Get an evaluation from an expert paediatric neurosurgeon. Do not hesitate to get a second opinion.

Before Surgery: Explain things to your child in an age-appropriate manner. Normalise the fear of surgery. Bring familiar items (toys, blankets) to the hospital.

After Surgery: Neuroplasticity is very strong in childhood — brain functions have an incredible capacity for adaptation.^1,2 Be patient and stick to the rehabilitation programme.

In babies: Rapid growth in head circumference, a tense/bulging fontanelle, downward deviation of the eyes (setting sun sign), irritability, feeding difficulties, developmental delay.

Long-Term Follow-Up

Regular check-ups throughout the growing years are important. Shunt malfunction is common in children with shunts and revision may be required.³ After tumour surgery: endocrinological and neuropsychological follow-up. After epilepsy surgery: medication adjustment and cognitive evaluation.

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