Paediatric Surgery

For Patients and Visitors

What can I expect from the service?

The Paediatric surgery service provides assessment, advice and surgery for children and their families. This is available as an outpatient service, elective theatre sessions, and through the emergency department with a 24 hour on call service.

When you are referred to the outpatient department your child will be seen by a senior paediatric surgeon and their problems assessed. You will be able to accompany your child. After the consultation you and your child will be told about their condition. With your permission your child may be placed on the elective waiting list for surgery, or further tests or follow-up arranged. Your GP will receive a letter from the surgeon advising them of the results of your visit.

If you require an interpreter for the consultation your GP should mentions it in the referral letter, and it can be arranged prior to your visit.

If you bring your child to the emergency department with a surgical problem, they will initially be seen by an emergency doctor, then referred to one of our surgical doctors. They will assess your child and then discuss with one of the senior paediatric surgeons. If your child needs surgery one of the senior paediatric surgeons will be present in theatre for the operation. You will be able to accompany your child to theatre, and see them in the recovery room after the surgery. You will need to give permission for your child’s treatment.

What do I bring/need for my appointment?

Please bring with you/ have available the following items:

  •  your medicare card,
  • details of your GP
  • your child health book

Contact us:

Phone:      8405 8335

Email:       SpecialistClinics@nh.org.au

 

For Health Professionals

Service Overview

The Paediatric surgery service provides assessment, advice and surgery for children and their
families. This is available as an outpatient service, elective theatre sessions, and through the
emergency department with a 24 hour on call service.

Inclusion criteria:

Children from birth to 16 years of age with general paediatric surgical conditions.

Exclusion criteria:

Children with pre-existing complex surgical problems managed at a tertiary centre

How to Refer:

All referrals to Northern Health should be sent to:

Fax:   8405 8616

Director/Head of Unit:

Ms Sarah Condron