Plain-language articles from Dr. Frykman on the conditions we treat, what surgery really involves, and how to help your child through it.
24
Articles
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Topics
Dr. Frykman
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Tumors & Cysts 7 min read
Hearing that your child may have a tumor is overwhelming. Families want clear answers, a safe plan, and a coordinated team that knows pediatric cancer care inside and out. This guide explains the pediatric surgeon’s role from first imaging and biopsy to tumor resection, how decisions are made with pediatric oncology using evidence-based protocols, and…
Written by Dr. Frykman for parents: what a condition is, when to call, and what to expect from surgery and recovery.
24 articles shown
Tumors & Cysts7 min read
Hearing that your child may have a tumor is overwhelming. Families want clear answers, a safe plan, and a coordinated team that knows pediatric cancer care inside and out. This guide explains the pediatric surgeon’s role from first imaging and biopsy to tumor resection, how decisions are made with pediatric oncology using evidence-based protocols, and…
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Abdominal & Digestive8 min read
Colorectal problems in children can be stressful for the entire family, especially when they affect nutrition, growth, toileting, and day-to-day comfort. You want straight answers, a clear plan, and a team that understands how children heal. At Pacific Coast Pediatric Surgery, Dr. Philip K. Frykman provides specialized evaluation and treatment for newborns, infants, children, and…
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Newborn & Prenatal3 min read
For many parents in Calabasas, deciding whether to have their newborn son circumcised is a deeply personal choice. Whether your decision is based on tradition, faith, family values, or health considerations, it’s important to understand what the procedure involves, when it’s best performed, and who should do it. At Pacific Coast Pediatric Surgery, we offer…
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Newborn & Prenatal3 min read
Choosing circumcision for your baby or child is a personal decision that often brings up questions about timing, safety, comfort, and who should perform the procedure. Whether it’s for religious, cultural, medical, or personal reasons, families in Calabasas and the Conejo Valley deserve accurate, compassionate information about what pediatric circumcision involves. At Pacific Coast Pediatric…
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Chest & Airway5 min read
If your child has a sunken chest (pectus excavatum) or a protruding chest (pectus carinatum), you are not alone. These are among the most common chest wall differences seen in children and adolescents. Most are mild, yet some cause exercise intolerance, chest pain, or self consciousness that affects daily life. Families often ask when to…
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Parent Guides6 min read
When your child is referred to a pediatric surgeon, it is natural to feel anxious. You want to know what this specialty involves, who will be caring for your child, and what to expect from the first visit through recovery. This guide explains the scope of pediatric surgery, the age range served, how pediatric surgeons…
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Abdominal & Digestive6 min read
When your child is born with a digestive or liver condition, you want clear answers, a plan you can trust, and a team that treats your family with care. At Pacific Coast Pediatric Surgery, you receive compassionate guidance alongside expert pediatric surgical care, so you understand what is happening, why treatment is needed, and what…
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Parent Guides5 min read
When your child needs surgery, choosing the right surgeon can feel overwhelming. You want to know that the doctor has the training, experience, and judgment to keep your child safe, and you also want a team that is compassionate and easy to reach. This guide explains what board certification means, how pediatric surgeons differ from…
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Tumors & Cysts3 min read
If your teen has been complaining about pain near their tailbone, especially while sitting or walking, they might be dealing with something called a pilonidal cyst. This condition can be painful and confusing since many parents have never heard of it before, and teens often feel embarrassed to talk about it. At Pacific Coast Pediatric…
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Chest & Airway4 min read
For many families, learning that their child has a chest wall deformity such as pectus excavatum or pectus carinatum is an emotional moment that leads to pressing questions about health, appearance, and the future. You may wonder whether your child needs surgery, what the right timing is, and how the journey will unfold. Understanding these…
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Abdominal & Digestive7 min read
Hearing your child needs gastrointestinal (GI) surgery can be one of the most frightening experiences a parent can face. The complexity of the digestive system, combined with the natural anxiety that comes with any surgical procedure involving your child, creates a perfect storm of worry and uncertainty. However, knowing what to expect from this procedure…
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Tumors & Cysts5 min read
A common concern parents have is the development of unusual lumps or bumps on their child’s skin. While most skin masses in children are benign and harmless, some may require closer evaluation or surgical removal. Understanding when to seek specialist care can help you navigate these situations with confidence. What Are Pediatric Skin Masses? Pediatric…
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Tumors & Cysts4 min read
When your child is facing surgery, it’s normal to feel apprehensive. Even if it’s a routine procedure, questions about safety, recovery time, and future health can feel overwhelming. If your child has been diagnosed with a dermoid cyst and surgery has been recommended, you might be relieved to know that minimally invasive techniques are now…
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Abdominal & Digestive3 min read
When your child experiences abdominal pain, it can lead to a whirlwind of emotions and concerns. One of the most common causes of severe stomach pain in children is appendicitis—a condition that often requires a surgical procedure called an appendectomy. This blog will guide parents through the basics of appendectomy, from recognizing the signs of…
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Parent Guides4 min read
When it comes to your child’s health, every decision is crucial, especially when choosing the right medical care provider. For some families, this involves identifying a trusted pediatrician, while others may require the expertise of a pediatric specialist for more complex needs, such as pediatric surgery. If you’re located in a big city like Los…
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Abdominal & Digestive4 min read
It’s alarming to learn that your child may have a choledochal cyst. As a parent, it’s natural to want clear answers about what the condition is, how it affects your child, and what treatment options are available. Fortunately, with early diagnosis and proper care, children can recover well and live healthy, active lives. What Are…
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Newborn & Prenatal4 min read
For expecting parents, the excitement of welcoming a new baby comes with a natural focus on their child’s health. When a prenatal screening detects a possible digestive tract disorder, that excitement may turn to worry and questions. Knowing what to expect and how early intervention can help is essential. That’s where prenatal consultations with a…
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Common4 min read
Hernias in children are more common than most people realize. So, it’s important for parents to understand what a hernia is, the signs to watch out for, and the available treatment options. Whether dealing with a suspected hernia or looking for information, this guide will walk you through the essentials. What Is a Hernia in…
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Parent Guides3 min read
If your child has just undergone surgery, you’re probably feeling a mix of relief and worry. You’re relieved that the procedure is over, but at the same time, you’re concerned about how you can best support their recovery. It’s a lot to juggle! But don’t stress. We’ve got you covered. Post-operative care is where you,…
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Parent Guides4 min read
As a parent or guardian, it’s natural to feel anxious about your child undergoing surgery. Even routine procedures can be a source of worry. Understanding what to expect can help ease your mind and prepare you for your child’s recovery. In this article, we’ll walk you through some of the most common pediatric surgical procedures,…
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Parent Guides2 min read
As a parent, there’s nothing more important than your child’s health. When surgery becomes necessary, it can be a scary time. You want the best possible care for your little one, and you want their recovery to be as smooth as possible. That’s where minimally invasive surgery comes in. Let’s say for a moment you…
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Abdominal & Digestive4 min read
In pediatric health, timely intervention is critical, particularly for complex conditions like esophageal disorders. The esophagus – a vital part of the digestive system – transports food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach. In children, esophageal conditions can present unique challenges and require prompt diagnosis and treatment to ensure optimal outcomes. This article…
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Common3 min read
Pediatric hernias can be a cause of concern for parents. Fortunately, it is a treatable condition. This comprehensive guide aims to provide clarity for parents dealing with pediatric hernias. It will help you understand the causes, symptoms and available surgical solutions for the condition so you can make informed decisions about your child’s health. Understanding…
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Chest & Airway5 min read
Located in Thousand Oaks, California, Pacific Coast Pediatric Surgery is renowned for its expertise in treating pectus excavatum. This congenital condition involves a sunken breastbone, affecting both physical and emotional well-being. Understanding the surgical options for correcting this condition can help families make informed decisions about their child’s health. This article provides a detailed look…
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