Conditions we care for, explained without fear
Understanding your child's condition is the first step to a calm, confident decision. Explore the conditions Dr Pavithra most commonly evaluates and treats.
Conditions we care for, explained clearly
Tap any condition to understand what it is, the signs to watch for, and how it is approached.
A hernia occurs when tissue pushes through a weak point in the abdominal wall, most often in the groin (inguinal) or at the navel (umbilical). In children, inguinal hernias are usually repaired to prevent complications, while many umbilical hernias close on their own.
Signs to watch for
- A soft bulge that appears when the child cries, coughs or strains
- Swelling in the groin or scrotum
- Discomfort that eases when the child is calm and lying down
Approach — Careful examination determines whether repair is needed now or can be safely planned. Repairs are typically day-care procedures with a quick recovery.
During development, the testis descends into the scrotum. When one or both do not, timely evaluation matters for future fertility and health. Surgery (orchidopexy) gently brings the testis into position when it does not descend on its own.
Signs to watch for
- An empty or under-filled scrotum on one or both sides
- A testis that can sometimes be felt higher up
- Noticed at birth or during routine check-ups
Approach — If the testis has not descended by around six months, a well-timed, minimally invasive procedure is usually recommended.
Hypospadias is a common birth condition where the opening of the urethra is on the underside of the penis. Reconstructive surgery restores normal function and appearance, and is planned carefully in the first years of life.
Signs to watch for
- The urinary opening is not at the tip
- A downward curve of the penis (chordee)
- An unusual appearance of the foreskin
Approach — A staged, meticulous surgical plan is created for the individual child, prioritising function, healing and long-term comfort.
Appendicitis is one of the most common surgical emergencies in children. Prompt evaluation is important, and treatment is usually a minimally invasive (keyhole) removal of the appendix with a short hospital stay.
Signs to watch for
- Pain that starts near the navel and moves to the lower right
- Loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting
- Fever and pain that worsens with movement
Approach — Timely assessment and laparoscopic appendicectomy where indicated, with careful post-operative care and rapid return to normal life.
Children can experience a range of urological conditions — vesicoureteric reflux, obstruction of the drainage system (PUJ obstruction), and recurrent urinary tract infections. Careful investigation protects the growing kidneys.
Signs to watch for
- Repeated urinary tract infections
- Pain, fever or changes in urination
- Antenatally detected swelling of the kidney
Approach — Structured evaluation guides whether monitoring, medication or surgery best protects long-term kidney health.
Neonatal surgery addresses conditions identified before or shortly after birth — intestinal, anorectal, chest and abdominal wall differences. These require gentle, specialised care and close coordination with neonatal teams.
Signs to watch for
- Antenatally detected findings on scan
- Feeding difficulty, vomiting or abdominal distension
- Visible differences noted at birth
Approach — Delicate, experience-led neonatal surgical care with meticulous planning and family-centred communication.
Signs that are worth a specialist opinion
Not every one of these means surgery — but each is worth a careful, unhurried evaluation. When in doubt, ask.
Not sure if it needs surgery?
A consultation is an evaluation, not a decision made for you. Let's understand it together.