Paediatric surgeons are involved in the treatment of children and are specially trained to do so. Other surgical disciplines also involve the treatment of children, but this is a specially adapted discipline developed to deal with the special needs of children. Typical medical conditions a paediatric surgeon would need to deal with include traumas, cancerous conditions and intestinal injuries.

The treatment given would be divided between operative and non-operative techniques in order to ensure patients are treated to the highest standard. They would also need to spend their time updating paper work and working with other medical professionals. This is a medical discipline in which you will always need to be on your toes.

Work activities

Typical work activities a paediatric surgeon would need to carry out include:

  • Build and maintain an excellent level or rapport with patients in order to ensure they are comfortable in their surroundings.
  • Discuss the treatment with patients and their family to make sure they are at ease.
  • Continue to learn and train throughout your career as well as offer your experience and advice to other new surgeons.
  • Maintain an excellent level of dexterity and practical skills.
  • This is an area of surgery in which more patient care and friendliness is required.
  • Analyse and update patient records to make sure they are given the best treatment.
  • Conduct tests such as x-rays, physical examinations and MRI scans to determine the extent of patient illnesses and in order to recommend the best treatment.
  • Make life changing decisions quickly and in stressful situations.
  • A paediatric surgeon would need to be on call to deal with any patient emergencies.
  • Book operation theatres.
  • Ensure equipment is sterilised and hygiene levels are maintained.
  • Use operative and non-operative techniques in order to treat patients.

Essential skills

  • Understanding of your skills and limitations.
  • Able to make life changing decisions quickly and accurately.
  • Excellent level of dexterity and practical skills.
  • Desire to learn and help others.
  • Real desire to help patients get better.
  • Excellent communication skills, particularly with children.
  • Able to remain concentrated during long surgical procedures.
  • Self-motivated.
  • Aptitude for the sciences and medicine.
  • Grief is something that you will need to learn to cope with.
  • Ability to work as an individual and as part of a team.
  • Ability to work under pressure.
  • Excellent hand-eye coordination.