Paediatric surgery - surgical treatment of children and adolescents
At Charlottenlund Private Hospital, we offer assessment and treatment of selected paediatric surgical conditions in children and adolescents. We treat conditions including phimosis, undescended testicles, hydrocele and selected urinary problems.
Common conditions in Pediatric Surgery
Phimosis in children
Phimosis in children is a common condition in which the foreskin cannot be pulled back over the head of the penis.
Undescended testicles
An undescended testicle is a condition in which one or both testicles in a boy have not descended into the scrotum.
Hydrocele in children
A hydrocele is a collection of fluid around the testicle that appears as swelling in the scrotum.
Urinary problems
Urinary problems in children are common and can affect both daily life and the child’s well-being.
WHAT DO WE TREAT IN PEDIATRIC SURGERY?
At Charlottenlund Private Hospital, we offer assessment and treatment of selected paediatric surgical conditions in children and adolescents. We have particular experience in treating phimosis, undescended testicles, hydrocele and selected urinary problems.
The aim of treatment is to support normal development, prevent complications and improve the child’s well-being. Each child is assessed individually by a specialist with experience in paediatric surgery and paediatric urology.
WHAT CONDITIONS DO WE TREAT?
Phimosis
Phimosis means that the foreskin cannot be pulled back over the head of the penis. In young children, this is often normal, but treatment or surgery may be necessary if symptoms persist or if the child experiences infections or difficulty urinating.
Undescended testicles (Retentio testis)
An undescended testicle means that one or both testicles have not descended into the scrotum. The condition should be assessed at an early stage, as timely treatment can support the development of the testicle and reduce the risk of complications later in life.
Hydrocele
A hydrocele is a collection of fluid around the testicle that causes swelling in the scrotum. Many cases resolve on their own, but surgery may be necessary if the swelling persists or becomes more pronounced.
Urinary problems in children
Urinary problems may include frequent urination, daytime incontinence, bedwetting or difficulty emptying the bladder. A thorough assessment can help identify the cause and determine the appropriate treatment.
When should you seek an assessment?
It is important to seek an assessment if symptoms such as undescended testicles, persistent swelling in the scrotum or urinary problems occur. Early assessment and treatment can help prevent later complications and support a better outcome.
Signs to watch for
Symptoms such as one or both testicles being absent from the scrotum, swelling or problems with the foreskin may indicate the need for a surgical assessment. Parents should be aware of these signs and contact a paediatric surgery specialist.
Treatment of surgical conditions in children
Surgical conditions in children are treated as day surgery, allowing the child to return home the same day. The choice of treatment depends on the specific condition and is assessed individually. The aim is to correct anatomical problems and reduce the risk of future complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is phimosis?
Phimosis, also known as a tight foreskin, means that the foreskin cannot be pulled back over the head of the penis. In younger children, this is often a normal part of development and does not require treatment. If the child experiences pain, repeated infections, or problems urinating, treatment or surgery may be necessary.
When should phimosis be treated?
Treatment for phimosis may be necessary if the child experiences pain, recurrent inflammation, difficulty urinating, or severe tightness of the foreskin. In some cases, a steroid cream may be sufficient, while surgery may be recommended for persistent symptoms.
When is testicular retention treated?
An undescended testicle is usually treated if it has not descended into the scrotum by 6 months of age. Early treatment is important to support normal testicular development and reduce the risk of future fertility problems.
Is hydrocele dangerous?
A hydrocele is usually a harmless condition in which fluid collects around the testicle. In infants, the condition often goes away on its own during the first year of life. If the swelling persists, grows, or causes discomfort, surgical treatment may be necessary.
How is surgery performed in children?
The procedures are performed as day surgery under general anesthesia. Your child will arrive at the hospital on the day of the surgery and, in most cases, can go home a few hours later. Parents receive detailed information about both the procedure and the recovery period at home.
Should children be under general anesthesia?
Yes. Surgical treatment for phimosis, undescended testicles, and hydroceles is usually performed under general anesthesia so that the child does not experience any pain or discomfort during the procedure.
At Charlottenlund Private Hospital, we have extensive experience anesthetizing children. Our anesthesia team consists of specialist anesthesiologists with expertise in pediatric anesthesia, as well as anesthesiology nurses with specialized experience in caring for and monitoring children.
We place the highest priority on a safe and secure environment for both children and parents throughout the entire process—from preparation and anesthesia to recovery and going home.