What Is a Pediatric Neurosurgeon?

The nervous system consists of the brain, spinal cord and nerves. This system controls all the parts of the body, so problems with it can impact a wide range of functions, including movement, development, learning, memory, mood, speaking, swallowing and the senses, such as vision or hearing.

If your child has a neurological disorder that could be treated with surgery, you may be referred to a pediatric neurosurgeon.

What is a pediatric neurosurgeon?

A pediatric neurosurgeon is a doctor who is specially trained to perform surgeries involving the head, spine and other parts of the nervous system in babies, kids and teenagers.

Pediatric neurosurgeons complete extensive training, including:

• Four years of medical school
• One year of training in surgery
• Five or more years of training in neurosurgery
• Additional training in pediatric neurosurgery

Pediatric neurosurgeons are certified by The American Board of Neurological Surgery and The American Board of Pediatric Neurological Surgery. They may work in children's hospitals, large community hospitals or private practice.

What does a pediatric neurosurgeon treat?

Pediatric neurosurgeons care for children with:

• Head and spinal deformities
• Spinal cord and brain tumors 
• Epilepsy
• Problems with blood vessels in the brain
• Injuries to the brain, spinal cord or nerves
• Spasticity (involuntary muscle contractions)
• Hydrocephalus (abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain)

Choosing a pediatric neurosurgeon

To find the right provider for your child, consider a few important details:

• Experience. When it comes to any kind of surgery, including pediatric neurosurgery, it's important to find a surgeon who has performed the procedure many times. In addition to choosing a pediatric neurosurgeon with the right training and certification, find out their level of experience with your child's specific condition or procedure.
• Communication and compassion. You should feel informed and confident about your child's treatment plan. Seek a pediatric neurosurgeon who answers your questions, addresses your concerns and explains your child's treatment options clearly.
• Collaboration. Your child may need care from additional specialists. Ask about the other doctors and health professionals with whom the pediatric neurosurgeon works to ensure your child receives the most thorough care possible.
• Advanced treatment options. State-of-the-art technology and minimally invasive techniques can make surgical procedures safer and more precise. Your child's pediatrician or other care providers may be able to recommend a few pediatric neurosurgeons who offer leading-edge care.

What to ask a pediatric neurosurgeon

Whenever you meet a new doctor, it's a good idea to ask questions that will help you better understand your child's treatment plan and how that doctor would approach it. The same is true when you meet a pediatric neurosurgeon.

Some questions you may want to ask your child's neurosurgery team include:

• What are the risks and benefits for my child of having this surgery?
• How much experience do you have with the procedure my child needs?
• What outcomes can I expect after surgery?
• What might recovery look like?
• How soon does my child need surgery?

If your child doesn't need surgery right away, consider seeking a second opinion from another specialist. Second opinions can help you feel confident that you've made the right treatment decisions for your child.