Keeping your Child Healthy and Strong: Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery at Wexford Hospital 

Kids naturally want to run and play every chance they get. But when that big energy is slowed down by a big injury, it can be scary for children and parents — especially when the situation calls for surgery.

No matter the cause of your child’s injury or musculoskeletal condition, AHN’s Pediatric Orthopaedic Institute in Wexford Hospital is here for your family, offering advanced care and support every step of the way.

How do I know if my child needs orthopaedic surgery?

There are several types of injuries and conditions that might lead you to explore orthopaedic surgery for your child. Some of these include:

• Knee injury – A torn ligament or meniscus, a common pediatric sports injury.
• Bone fracture – A complete or partial bone break.
• Growth plate injuries – Damage to the areas that help bones grow.
• Birth conditions – A condition your child is born with that results in limb deformities. For example, scoliosis (a curved spine) or hip dysplasia (an improperly formed hip joint).

Anthony Silverio, DO, orthopaedist at The Pediatric Orthopaedic Institute in Wexford Hospital, said it is important for parents to have their children seen right away any time they experience an injury or pain.

“Early treatment — whether with surgery or not — helps prevent long-term joint pain and health issues as kids get older,” said Dr. Silverio.

Making treatment decisions together

When you bring your child to the Pediatric Orthopaedic Institute in Wexford Hospital, our specialists will work closely with you to decide if surgery is the right choice. They will:

• Review your child’s health history and do a physical exam.
• Use imaging tools like ultrasound to study the injury.
• Explain risks and benefits of surgery.
• Build a treatment plan with you and your child.

“My goal is always to give families the information they need to make the best decision for their child,” said Dr. Silverio.

You will never be alone in navigating treatment. The care team will be there to ease any concerns you have as you make treatment decisions.

What should I expect for my child’s orthopaedic surgery?

If you and your child’s doctors decide surgery is the best option, the Wexford Hospital team will guide you every step of the way, making sure you feel fully prepared and supported.

Before surgery

• You’ll receive clear instructions on how to get your child ready.
• Our staff will explain what will happen on the day of surgery and answer any questions.

During surgery

• Your child will get general anesthesia, so they’ll be asleep and shouldn’t feel any pain.
• Depending on the injury, doctors may use minimally invasive techniques (smaller cuts for faster healing) or a more traditional approach.
• The surgery team will help your child feel safe and comfortable throughout the procedure.

After surgery

• Most children can go home within a few hours, unless there are other health concerns.
• Your doctors will explain the recovery plan and safe pain relief options.
• Depending on the injury and treatment, your child may need to wear a cast or brace to protect the bone or joint. Your child may also need physical therapy to regain strength and practice certain movements.

Child life specialists make the difference 

Before and after the procedure, Wexford Hospital’s certified child life specialist can offer emotional support, using play and age-appropriate language to keep your child calm throughout treatment.

Child life specialists are trained to understand how injuries impact children. They can provide age-appropriate toys, books, and even playroom time to ease your child’s mind.

Choosing the right care for your child

We know it’s difficult to see your child in pain. That’s why at AHN Wexford Hospital, our pediatric specialists work with your family to create a unique treatment plan so your child can heal safely and get moving again.

Learn more about the pediatric services at AHN Wexford Hospital.