Pediatric Surgery

The goal of the pediatric surgery rotation is to provide a well-rounded experience in all aspects of surgical care focusing on the entire spectrum of pediatric surgical diseases. The rotation will include opportunities to participate in:

• Inpatient team rounds
• Outpatient clinic
• Operating room cases (elective & emergency)
• Emergency room/inpatient consults
• Weekly didactic sessions & academic conference
• H&P and progress note writing
• Subspecialty clinic experiences in Bariatric Surgery, IBD, Colorectal Surgery, Thoracic & Foregut Surgery, Trauma & Burn, Vascular Anomalies

Students who choose this elective should have an interest in general surgery, potentially pediatric surgery, or any area of pediatrics that may also overlap with the diagnosis and treatment of surgical problems. Students will gain exposure to the care of a wide range of patient populations, from the premature infant to the teenage patient, and surgical problems, including congenital anomalies, solid tumors/oncologic diseases, acute care issues, trauma, colorectal diseases, minimally invasive surgery, intestinal failure, neonatal critical care, and more. Students will have daily contact with surgical residents, fellows, and faculty.

Course Learning Objectives:

The student will gain a wide range of practical skills, knowledge base, and professionalism necessary for success in pediatric surgery. By the end of this course, the student should be able to:

1. Describe common pediatric surgical conditions and their initial workup and management, including applying evidence-based practices.
2. Evaluate pediatric surgical patients in outpatient and inpatient setting.
3. Perform surgical skills and basic surgical techniques under supervision, including suturing, knot-tying, and wound closure.
4. Practice multidisciplinary care, with focus on team-based approach to patient care.
5. Practice effective communication with patients and their families.