Understanding Pediatric Surgery: Ages, Conditions, And The Role Of A Pediatric Surgeon

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 differ from pediatricians and adult general surgeons, and the common conditions managed in a dedicated children’s practice. You will also meet Dr. Philip K. Frykman, whose training and experience help families across Southern California feel informed, supported, and confident. 

What age is pediatric surgery for? 

Pediatric surgery is dedicated to infants, children, and adolescents. Care typically begins in the newborn period, including premature infants in neonatal intensive care units, and continues through the teen years; some individuals with congenital conditions may be followed into early adulthood for continuity. This age focus matters because children are not small adults. They have unique anatomy and physiology, different patterns of disease, and developmental needs that influence surgical decision making, anesthesia, pain control, and recovery. A pediatric surgeon tailors every element of care to growth, future function, and a child’s emotional well being. 

What doctor does surgery on kids? 

A pediatric surgeon is a physician who completes medical school, a full general surgery residency, and then an additional accredited fellowship in pediatric surgery, followed by board certification specific to pediatric surgery. This pathway takes more than a decade of postgraduate training. Pediatric surgeons are the specialists called when a child needs an operation for urgent problems such as appendicitis or testicular torsion, for common conditions such as hernias and cysts, and for complex issues such as chest wall deformities or congenital digestive disorders. 

Dr. Philip K. Frykman is a board certified pediatric surgeon who cares exclusively for children. His credentials include M.D., Ph.D., M.B.A., F.A.C.S., and F.A.A.P., and his practice is devoted to comprehensive, family centered surgical care. If you are seeking expert pediatric surgery in Los Angeles, you can expect an evaluation and treatment by a surgeon with deep training in the full spectrum of pediatric conditions. 

What is the difference between a pediatric doctor and a pediatric surgeon? 

A pediatrician is your child’s primary care physician. Pediatricians focus on wellness care, growth and development, vaccinations, common illnesses, and coordination of specialty referrals. They diagnose and manage many conditions without surgery and are essential partners in your child’s health. 

A pediatric surgeon is a specialist who evaluates whether a condition requires an operation, determines the safest timing and technique, and performs the procedure. Pediatric surgeons bring expertise in anesthesia considerations for children, minimally invasive methods that limit tissue trauma and scarring, and post operative care tailored to young patients. In many cases your pediatrician identifies a concern, then collaborates with the pediatric surgeon to ensure seamless care before and after surgery. 

Is pediatric surgery like general surgery? 

Pediatric surgery builds on the foundation of general surgery but is distinct in scope and approach. The conditions are often different; for example, pyloric stenosis, intussusception, anorectal malformations, biliary atresia, and chest wall deformities are largely pediatric problems. Even for conditions that also occur in adults, such as hernias or gallbladder disease, the anatomy, physiology, and technical considerations in children are unique. Pediatric surgeons are also trained to use child specific instruments, laparoscopic and thoracoscopic techniques adapted for small bodies, and pain strategies that support faster recovery with fewer opioids. This specialization leads to safer operations, shorter hospital stays, and better long term outcomes for children. 

Why are pediatric surgeons so rare? 

Pediatric surgeons are comparatively rare because the field is highly selective and the training is long and very demanding. After medical school and a five to seven year general surgery residency, a surgeon must match into a competitive pediatric surgery fellowship that spans an additional two years focused exclusively on children. Board certification follows rigorous exams and ongoing requirements. The result is a smaller pool of specialists who possess focused pediatric expertise. 

Common conditions treated in a pediatric surgical practice 

Pediatric surgeons care for a wide range of conditions, from straightforward to complex. In a specialized practice you will see expertise across: 

• Hernias and hydroceles. Inguinal, umbilical, and epigastric hernias, as well as hydroceles, are common in childhood and are repaired with techniques that consider growth and recurrence risk. 
• Appendicitis. Laparoscopic appendectomy is standard in most cases, with careful attention to diagnosis, antibiotics, and same day or next day discharge when appropriate. 
• Lumps, bumps, and cysts. Dermoid cysts, thyroglossal duct cysts, branchial cleft cysts, pilomatrixomas, lipomas, and benign tumors are evaluated for safe removal with minimal scarring. 
• Chest wall deformities. Pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum are managed with corrective procedures such as the Nuss procedure, or bracing, respectively, individualized to symptoms and age. 
• Colorectal disorders. Conditions such as anorectal malformations (a.k.a imperforate anus) or Hirschsprung disease require specialized evaluation, pull through procedures, and long term support for bowel function. 
• Congenital digestive conditions. Esophageal and intestinal atresia, malrotation, choledochal cysts, and biliary atresia are addressed with techniques that protect growth and future function. 
• Tumors. Pediatric surgeons collaborate within oncology teams to biopsy and remove solid tumors in children, integrating surgery with chemo and radiation therapy, and supportive care. 
• Spleen. Partial or complete splenectomy for hereditary spherocytosis and other conditions are planned with vaccination and infection prevention in mind.

When to seek a pediatric surgical consultation 

You should ask your pediatrician about referrals when your child has persistent or enlarging lumps, a groin bulge that appears with crying or standing, abdominal pain with fever and vomiting suggestive of appendicitis, chest wall asymmetry that causes pain or limits activity, testicular pain or swelling, difficulty passing stool related to known anorectal conditions, or imaging that identifies a congenital digestive abnormality. Prenatal diagnoses of digestive tract or abdominal wall conditions also benefit from early consultation so that delivery planning and immediate newborn care are coordinated. 

Families in greater Los Angeles including the Conejo Valley can access coordinated evaluation, imaging, and surgical planning with a focus on your child’s comfort and your peace of mind. 

What to expect at the first visit 

Your initial appointment includes a careful review of your child’s history, a focused examination, and a discussion of whether surgery is needed now, later, or not at all. When imaging is helpful, such as ultrasound or MRI, it will be arranged and explained. If surgery is recommended, you will receive a clear plan that covers the procedure, anesthesia, pain control, recovery milestones, and how to reach the team with questions. Many operations are outpatient, allowing your child to recover at home with written instructions and follow up. For hospital based procedures, your child’s stay is as short as safety allows, and your family is involved in every decision. 

Meet Dr. Philip K. Frykman 

Dr. Frykman is a board certified pediatric surgeon with decades of experience, advanced degrees, and a commitment to teaching and international surgical missions. He cares for children as if they were his own, combining technical excellence with empathy at every step. His practice serves Thousand Oaks, Calabasas, and greater Los Angeles with access to clinic evaluation, outpatient surgery, and seamless coordination with your pediatrician and specialists. Click here to learn more about Dr. Frykman, including training, philosophy, and how his team supports families before and after surgery.