Pediatric Surgery focuses on the surgical care of neonates, infants, children, and adolescents. It emphasizes congenital anomalies, trauma, tumors, and acquired surgical conditions in children. The course integrates basic science knowledge(anatomy, embryology, physiology) with clinical reasoning, preoperative/postoperative management, and operative skills. Students gain practical experience through outpatient clinics, operating room observation, NICU/ICU rotations, and emergency care exposure.
Course Objectives
By the end of the course, students should be able to:
- Identify and classify congenital and acquired pediatric surgical conditions.
- Understand pediatric physiology and pharmacology relevant to surgical care.
- Conduct age-appropriate history-taking and physical examination.
- Recognize and manage surgical emergencies in children.
- Demonstrate knowledge of preoperative, operative, and postoperative care.
- Observe and assist in pediatric surgical procedures.
- Apply evidence-based principles in decision-making for pediatric surgery.
Teaching Methods
- Lectures (2 hours/week)
- Bedside clinical teaching (2 hours/week)
- Operating room observation and participation
- NICU/ICU rounds
- Case-based discussions
- Journal club and literature review
Assessment Methods
| Type | Description | Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Written Exams | MCQs, SAQs, case-based questions | 40% |
| Clinical Exams | OSCE: history-taking, physical examination, diagnosis | 30% |
| Logbook | Record of observed and assisted procedures | 20% |
| Participation & Attendance | Clinical rounds, case discussions | 10% |
Recommended Textbooks
- Pediatric Surgery by Coran AG, 8th Edition
- Ashcraft’s Pediatric Surgery, 6th Edition
- Operative Pediatric Surgery by Grosfeld JL, 7th Edition
- Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics (Surgery Chapters)
Expected Learning Outcomes
By course completion, students will be able to:
- Diagnose common congenital and acquired pediatric surgical conditions.
- Manage preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care.
- Respond to surgical emergencies efficiently.
- Apply ethical and professional conduct in pediatric surgical care.
- Integrate evidence-based knowledge into decision-making.
