Learn about Pediatric Cancer Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Pediatric Cancer and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Pediatric Cancer

Pediatric cancer surgery is a specialized surgical procedure performed by a surgical oncologist to diagnose, stage, or remove cancerous tumors in children. This field requires unique expertise due to the distinct biology of childhood cancers, the developing anatomy of young patients, and the critical need to preserve future growth and function. The procedure is tailored to the specific type of cancer, such as neuroblastoma, Wilms tumor, or bone sarcomas, and may involve tumor resection, lymph node dissection, or placement of vascular access devices for chemotherapy. The goal is to achieve complete removal of the cancer while minimizing long-term side effects, often as part of a multidisciplinary treatment plan including oncology, radiology, and supportive care.

Key Highlights

    Performed by specialists trained in both pediatric surgery and surgical oncology.Aims for maximal cancer removal while preserving critical organs and future growth potential.Often a key component of a multimodal treatment plan (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation).Utilizes advanced techniques, including minimally invasive (laparoscopic/robotic) surgery when appropriate.Focuses on long-term quality of life and functional outcomes for the child.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Diagnosis: To obtain a tissue biopsy for confirming the type and stage of cancer.
  • Primary Treatment: For solid tumors where complete surgical removal (resection) is the best curative option.
  • Debulking: To remove as much tumor as possible to enhance the effectiveness of other therapies like chemotherapy.
  • Second-Look Surgery: To assess response after initial chemotherapy and remove any remaining disease.
  • Palliative Care: To relieve symptoms caused by the tumor, such as obstruction or pain.
  • Placement of access devices like central venous catheters for long-term chemotherapy administration.

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive evaluation including imaging (CT, MRI, PET scans) to map the tumor.
  • Multidisciplinary team meeting to finalize the surgical plan within the overall treatment strategy.
  • Pre-operative tests to assess the child's overall health, blood counts, and organ function.
  • Nutritional optimization to ensure the child is strong enough for surgery and recovery.
  • Detailed discussions with the family about the procedure, goals, risks, and expected outcomes.
  • Pre-operative fasting as per anesthesia guidelines.

Risks & possible complications

  • General surgical risks: Bleeding, infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia.
  • Damage to nearby organs, nerves, or blood vessels during tumor removal.
  • Incomplete tumor resection, potentially requiring additional treatment.
  • Long-term effects on growth and development depending on the surgery site.
  • Formation of scar tissue (adhesions) which may cause future bowel obstruction.
  • Psychological and emotional impact on the child and family.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Initial recovery in a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) or specialized ward with close monitoring.
  • Management of post-operative pain with appropriate pediatric medications.
  • Gradual resumption of feeding and mobilization as tolerated.
  • Incision care and monitoring for signs of infection.
  • Coordination for the next phase of treatment, such as starting chemotherapy.
  • Long-term follow-up with the oncology team for surveillance, rehabilitation, and managing late effects.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 5-14 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 4-12 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering pediatric cancer in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for pediatric cancer compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 1,632 – USD 8,701 5-14 days ~ 4-12 weeks Know More
Turkey USD 12,079 – USD 64,420 5-14 days ~ 4-12 weeks Know More

Top hospitals for Pediatric Cancer in India

These partner hospitals in India have dedicated surgical oncology teams and experience managing patients undergoing pediatric cancer.

Nanavati Max Hospital

  • IconMumbai, India
  • Icon187 Doctors
PATIENT REVIEW

As a young professional with a...

As a young professional with a hectic schedule, Dr. Acharya’s team accommodated my follow-ups efficiently without ever making me feel rushed. His balance of expertise and empathy is rare in surgical fields.

Surgical Oncologists for Pediatric Cancer

Explore experienced surgical oncologists who regularly perform pediatric cancer and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Nitish Ranjan Acharya
  • 10 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar

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Dr. Devesh S. Ballal
  • 12 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road

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Dr. Lakshmanan C.
  • 40 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road

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Dr. Manjunath N. M. L.
  • 21 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road

OPD-desk synced • Updated