Many surgeries performed on children are done as an outpatient. With minor surgeries, your child will return to the outpatient surgery center after spending the needed time in the recovery room.

Surgery doesn't always mean large incisions. Minimally invasive surgery is often used today. This uses small cuts, and allows a child to recover faster and with less pain.

Detailed information on surgery in children

Detailed information on surgery in children

Read books to your toddler about going to the hospital. Keep any explanations simple and be careful with the words you use.

Allow your teen to be part of the decision-making process. Encourage them to make a list of questions to ask the healthcare providers.

When your child goes to the hospital, brothers and sisters may feel afraid, worried, or confused. They're often afraid simply because they don't know what to expect, and they may imagine the worst. Here's what you can do to help.

One of the major fears preschoolers have is fear of the unknown. Tell your child about the surgery several days before the procedure and perhaps even visit the hospital for a tour.

It's important to keep your baby's routine the same before the day of surgery. Make sure you, your baby, and your family are well rested.

Detailed information on preparing the child having surgery