The Journey of Pediatric Surgery
By Shreenika Speciality Clinic
Pediatric surgery is one of the most precise and compassionate branches of modern medicine — and at Shreenika Speciality Clinic, it is our sole focus. Understanding its history helps us appreciate how far we’ve come, and why specialized care for children matters so deeply.
The idea of operating on children is not new. Ancient civilizations — including India, Greece, and Egypt — documented surgical procedures such as hernia repair and cleft lip correction, often performed on young patients. In India, the Sushruta Samhita described such interventions centuries ago. But without anesthesia, antiseptics, or an understanding of children’s unique physiology, these early attempts were extremely limited.
For hundreds of years, especially through the Middle Ages, progress was slow. Childhood illnesses and congenital conditions were often considered untreatable. Surgery was risky, survival rates were poor, and the delicate needs of children were rarely recognized.
It was only in the 19th century, with the advent of ether anesthesia and Joseph Lister’s antiseptic techniques, that surgery became significantly safer. Yet even then, children were still treated as “small adults” in operating rooms — their distinct anatomy and metabolism were overlooked, and outcomes often suffered.
The true transformation began in the early 20th century. Pioneers like Dr. William E. Ladd, known as the father of modern pediatric surgery, proved that children needed a dedicated surgical approach. His work in treating congenital malformations and training future specialists laid the foundation for pediatric surgery as a recognized, structured discipline.
Globally, the specialty grew rapidly after the World Wars, with the creation of pediatric surgical units designed not only for treatment but also for the emotional well-being of children and their families. In India, this momentum took root in the 1960s, led by visionaries like Dr. M. S. Ramakrishnan, who helped establish the Indian Association of Pediatric Surgeons (IAPS) in 1965. Institutions such as AIIMS, CMC Vellore, and Niloufer Hospital became centers of excellence, shaping generations of specialists.
Today, pediatric surgery is more advanced than ever. From performing delicate neonatal operations within hours of birth to minimally invasive procedures in toddlers, surgeons work with high-definition imaging, miniature instruments, and even robotic assistance — often on newborns weighing less than two kilograms. What was once unthinkable is now routine in specialized centers, and survival rates have improved dramatically.
At Shreenika Speciality Clinic, we carry this legacy forward every day. Our mission is to combine this rich history with cutting-edge techniques and a family-centered approach — so every child not only receives expert surgical care, but also compassion, comfort, and hope for the future.
Pediatric surgery is not just about performing operations. It’s about safeguarding a child’s tomorrow — and that’s a responsibility we are honored to uphold.
