Common surgical problems in children

Abstract

This article aims to take the reader through the common presentations and assessment of children presenting with a surgical condition. Although relatively uncommon, most of these conditions need urgent identification and management. After reading this article and completing the questions that follow the reader should be able to: identify the signs and symptoms of a surgical problem; recognise the importance of supporting families with a surgical condition, both pre and post diagnosis; initiate appropriate referral for different surgical conditions.