Pediatric Surgical Oncology
The Pediatric Surgical Oncology Department at Burjeel Cancer Institute specializes in performing surgeries for children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer. Our team of experienced pediatric surgeons collaborates with oncologists, radiation specialists, and other medical experts to provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care tailored to young patients. We use the latest minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgical techniques to ensure precise, effective treatment while minimizing recovery time and potential long-term side effects.
Conditions We Treat
Our pediatric surgical oncology team provides care for a wide range of childhood cancers, including:
- Wilms' Tumor (kidney cancer)
- Neuroblastoma
- Rhabdomyosarcoma
- Ewing Sarcoma
- Osteosarcoma
- Hepatoblastoma (liver cancer)
- Germ Cell Tumors
- Brain and Spinal Cord Tumors
- Retinoblastoma
- Thyroid and Parathyroid Tumors
- Other Rare Pediatric Cancers
Surgical Treatment Options
We offer a variety of advanced surgical techniques designed to treat pediatric cancers effectively while reducing recovery time and minimizing complications:
Tumor Resection
Removal of cancerous tumors, often combined with chemotherapy or radiation therapy for optimal outcomes.
Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS)
Laparoscopic and thoracoscopic surgeries that involve smaller incisions, resulting in less pain, quicker recovery, and minimal scarring.
Robotic-Assisted Surgery
A precise, minimally invasive approach to pediatric cancer surgeries, allowing for greater accuracy and reduced trauma to surrounding tissues.
Limb-Sparing Surgery
Used in cases of bone cancers like osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma, where the goal is to remove the tumor while preserving as much limb function as possible.
Pediatric Neurosurgery
Specialized surgery for children with brain and spinal cord tumors, focused on removing tumors while preserving neurological function.
Our Approach to Treatment
Our pediatric surgical oncology team is committed to providing compassionate, family-centered care, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our young patients:
Personalized Treatment Plans
Every child receives an individualized treatment plan that considers the type of cancer, its stage, and the child's overall health. Our surgeons work closely with pediatric oncologists, radiation oncologists, and supportive care teams to provide coordinated, multidisciplinary care.
Minimally Invasive Techniques
Whenever possible, we use laparoscopic or robotic-assisted surgery to minimize pain, reduce recovery time, and improve outcomes for children.
Collaborative Care
Our surgeons collaborate with other specialists to offer comprehensive cancer treatment, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy, to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
Family-Centered Care
We provide support and guidance to families throughout the surgical process, helping them navigate treatment decisions, recovery, and long-term care.
Diagnostic and Monitoring Tools
Our team uses advanced diagnostic tools to plan and execute surgeries with precision:
Pediatric Imaging
We use specialized imaging techniques, including MRI, CT scans, and PET-CT, to accurately diagnose and stage pediatric cancers.
Biopsy and Pathology
Tissue samples are examined to confirm cancer type and stage, providing essential information for treatment planning.
Intraoperative MRI (iMRI)
Used during surgery to provide real-time imaging, ensuring complete tumor removal while preserving healthy tissue, particularly useful for brain and spinal cord tumors.
Genetic Testing
In certain cases, genetic testing may be used to understand the biological behavior of the tumor and tailor treatment strategies.
Supportive Care and Patient Services
In addition to surgical care, we offer a wide range of supportive services to ensure the physical and emotional well-being of our pediatric patients and their families:
Pediatric Palliative Care
Focused on symptom relief and quality of life during cancer treatment, providing emotional and physical support.
Rehabilitation Services
Tailored rehabilitation programs to help children regain strength and mobility after surgery.
Nutritional Support
Ensuring that children receive the nutrition they need to support recovery and growth during and after cancer treatment.
Child Life Services
Supportive services designed to help children and their families cope with the stress of hospitalization and treatment through play therapy, education, and emotional support.
Family Counseling
Psychological and emotional support for families navigating the challenges of their child's cancer treatment.
Advanced Surgical Techniques
Our pediatric surgical oncology team uses the latest surgical advancements to ensure the best possible outcomes:
Robotic-Assisted Surgery
Precision surgery that allows for greater accuracy, fewer complications, and quicker recovery times for children undergoing cancer surgeries.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
Laparoscopic and thoracoscopic techniques to remove tumors through small incisions, reducing pain and promoting faster healing.
Limb-Sparing Surgery
For children with bone cancers, we use specialized surgical techniques to remove tumors while preserving as much of the affected limb as possible, minimizing the need for amputation.
Intraoperative MRI (iMRI)
Real-time imaging during surgery to ensure precise tumor removal, particularly in brain and spinal cord tumors.
Patient Journey
Our pediatric surgical oncology team supports young patients and their families throughout every step of the treatment journey:
Initial Consultation
A comprehensive evaluation by a pediatric surgeon, including diagnostic imaging, pathology, and review of the child's medical history to develop a personalized surgical plan.
Surgery Planning
Detailed preparation for surgery, including preoperative testing and consultations with anesthesiologists, oncologists, and other specialists involved in the child's care.
Surgery
Performed using the latest techniques to ensure the safest and most effective tumor removal. Our surgeons work closely with oncologists to coordinate any necessary chemotherapy or radiation therapy post-surgery.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Postoperative care to ensure proper healing and pain management, followed by rehabilitation to help the child regain strength, mobility, and function.
Follow-Up Care
Long-term follow-up to monitor for recurrence, manage side effects, and provide support for ongoing recovery.
