Health Library

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is minimally invasive surgery?

  Minimally invasive surgery uses tiny cuts in the skin — or no cuts at all — instead of the large cuts often needed in traditional surgery. For conditions that can be corrected using minimally invasive surgery, kids often recover faster with less pain and smaller scars.

• What’s an interventional radiologist?

  These doctors are specially trained to do minimally invasive surgical procedures using medical imaging. Interventional radiology specialists earn medical degrees and go through more than 5 additional years of training to ensure they have the skills needed.

• How can I help my child get ready for surgery?

  Kids who need surgery may have lots of questions. Knowing what to expect can help them feel more comfortable. Talk to the surgery team about what to expect so you can answer your child’s questions. Many hospitals also have child life specialists who are trained to talk to kids in a comforting, age-appropriate way.