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Young boy copying what provider is asking him to do for exam

Children's National Heart Institute

Questions to Ask Your Pediatric Surgeon

Young boy copying what provider is asking him to do for exam

If your child requires surgery, you will meet with a pediatric surgeon. Determining the right questions to ask might be difficult, so use the questions below as a helpful guide.

  • Why is this treatment or procedure being recommended, and what exactly will happen?
  • Can you send me for a second opinion?
  • What are the potential risks?
  • What potential benefits have been seen, or might be deemed possible?
  • What about my child’s quality of life? Do the benefits outweigh the risks?
  • If this is a trial procedure, why would you choose this one over another one?
  • What is your medical background? How long have you been doing procedures or treatments like this? Where did you train?
  • Are your anesthesiologists fellowship trained in pediatrics?
  • Can I be involved in the care process for my child?
  • Do you have a pre-surgical tour that can help ease my child’s fears regarding the process?

Having Surgery: What to Expect

We're here to help you understand the entire process of your child's surgery — from preparation to post-surgical care.