Specialized care for chest wall deformities, including pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum with minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery. Pectus Chest Wall Deformities PECTUS EXCAVATUM PECTUS CARINATUM MIXED CHEST DEFORMITY OUR PECTUS PROGRAM Pectus Excavatum What is it? Pectus excavatum is characterized by a sunken chest caused by the sternum pressing inward. It often becomes more pronounced during growth spurts in childhood or adolescence. Signs and Symptoms Sunken appearance of the chest wall Decreased exercise tolerance Negative self image Evaluation and Diagnosis Diagnosis involves a physical exam, chest CT scans, and tests like echocardiograms and pulmonary function assessments to determine severity. Treatment Nuss Repair (Minimally Invasive): Placement of a metal bar under the sternum to correct the defect, removed 2-3 years later. Ravitch Repair (Open Surgery): Removal of cartilage and placement of a strut under the sternum to reshape the chest. Non operative treatments are sometimes used in unique cases Follow-Up Care Post-surgery follow-ups include monitoring with chest X-rays and restricting contact sports for a brief period of time. The bar is typically removed after 2-3 years. About Pectus Excavatum Pectus excavatum is an indentation to the chest wall that occurs in 1 in 300 people. Patients with pectus excavatum may complain of shortness of breath, especially while exercising, or an inability to keep up physically with their peers. They may feel embarrassed or ashamed of their physical appearance, and this impaired body image can result in lower self-esteem and impaired quality of life. Pectus excavatum often requires an operation to elevate the sternum, potentially improving heart and lung function, as well as improving the appearance of the chest. An extensive evaluation will help determine if a patient is a surgical candidate. At the patient’s initial consultation, we will discuss if and when additional workup testing should be considered. The surgeons perform the Nuss procedure to correct pectus excavatum. The surgery involves two small incisions made on either side of the chest. One or more bars are guided across the chest and then rotated to lift the sternum. Thoracoscopy allows the surgeons to see inside the chest with a camera during the procedure. We utilize a multimodal approach to pain control to ensure patients are able to return to their normal activities as soon as possible. One aspect of this pain control is cryoablation, which uses extreme cold to temporarily freeze targeted nerves in the chest wall. We restrict certain activities for a short period of time, but within a limited time period our patients are able to resume all activities including contact sports. At Austin Pediatric Surgery, an enhanced recovery (ERAS) pathway was created by our team of surgeons, advanced practice providers, anesthesiologists, nurses, physical and occupational therapists, pharmacists, and Child Life Specialists. ERAS is a patient-centered and evidence-based approach to optimize surgical outcomes. This team developed a pectus pathway to improve postoperative pain control, encourage early mobility, and decrease hospital length of stay. This pathway optimizes care before, during, and after your surgery. Pectus Carinatum What is it? Pectus carinatum causes the sternum to protrude outward, leading to a pigeon chest appearance. Signs and Symptoms Asymmetric chest appearance Negative self image Chest pain or breathing difficulties Evaluation and Diagnosis Diagnosed via physical exams, sometimes supplemented with chest X-rays for bony abnormalities. Treatment Brace Therapy: Effective for non-rigid cases, requiring continuous wear for 3-6 months. Ravitch Repair (Surgical): Reserved for severe or brace-resistant cases, involving cartilage removal and sternum reshaping. Follow-Up Care Brace therapy patients are monitored for progress, while post-surgery patients are seen regularly to ensure proper healing. About Pectus Carinatum Pectus carinatum is a less common variant of a pectus anomaly and occurs when the sternum and ribs protrude outward. Many patients with pectus carinatum experience continued growth of the protrusion during growth spurts. Some children may experience shortness of breath, most often during exercise. The most common treatment for pectus carinatum is bracing therapy, though occasionally surgery is indicated. Timing of this treatment is important and is best during early adolescent and teenage years when cartilage is softer and the chest wall is more easily reshaped. We will help you to determine and carry out the right plan for your condition. Mixed Chest Deformity Mixed chest deformities may include a combination of pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum. We also see patients with pectus arcuatum. Pectus arcuatum is a rare chest wall deformity that causes the upper part of the sternum to protrude forward and the lower part to angle backward. Our surgeons will work with patients and families to create individualized treatment plans based on desired outcomes. Our Pectus Program The surgeons of Austin Pediatric Surgery have developed a multidisciplinary Chest Wall Program at Dell Children’s Medical Center. They specialize in treating structural deformities of the chest wall including pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum. The conditions are caused by an abnormal growth of the cartilage that connects the sternum to the ribs. Typically, pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum become more prominent during the rapid growth of early adolescent and teen years, but they can also develop at a much younger age. Sometimes there may be a family history of chest wall abnormalities, however these conditions can also be associated with certain connective tissue disorders, such as Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Our program will work with you and your family to make the best plan for your condition. If you have any questions, please contact our Chest Wall Program Coordinator at: dcchestwallprogram@ascension.org . Pectus Program Testimonials "My Daughter had her surgery with Dr.Josephs in June 2024 and it was a great experience from the start, I had so many questions answered and the staff were so amazing especially Sarah. I am grateful for the care and knowledge that I gained from this experience and for my daughters surgery to go so well! I couldn't thank Dr.Josephs enough for changing the course of my daughters life and making her life better! Forever grateful!" - Mother of patient with pectus excavatum "We had an exceptional experience with Dr. Grethel and his team, and I wanted to share our journey in the hopes it might help others. My 16 year old son Matt had been struggling with his stamina since the indent in his chest started worsening with puberty. He would often feel short of breath quickly, experience premature muscle burn during exercise, and describe the air as feeling “heavy.” After a couple of years of observation and consultation with Dr. Grethel, we felt that the NUSS procedure was the best solution for him. From the very beginning, Dr. Grethel and his team were incredibly professional, helpful, and supportive. They guided us through every step of the process, including navigating the complexities of insurance approval. Their patience and dedication gave us the confidence we needed during the uncertain times leading to surgery. The results have been incredible. Just a few days after the surgery, Matt noticed an immediate difference—he could breathe more easily, even at rest, which he had never realized was a challenge for in a little over six weeks, he was back to running, swimming, rowing, and lifting weights. We are almost 3 months post-op and the improvement in his stamina has been noticeable. We cannot thank Dr. Grethel and his staff enough for their outstanding care and support throughout this journey. We are so grateful for the positive impact this surgery has had on Matt’s life and highly recommend Dr. Grethel and his team." -Valerie L. "No one likes to have to send their child into surgery. No one likes to see the effects of pectus excavatum on their child's physical and emotional health. But the Nuss Procedure performed at Dell Children's hospital changed our child's life forever. The staff guided us through the preparation process, answering all of our questions and scheduling the requisite tests. The procedure involved a minimally invasive surgery whereby a titanium bar was inserted under the ribs, causing almost instant improvement. Because of advances in the procedure, the surgeons do a cryo-ablation of the nerves inside the chest wall, which thaw after 8 weeks. This means the patient is home sooner (two to three days instead of a week or longer in the hospital) and no prescription painkillers are necessary during recovery. It took three months to be completely able to do everything but because of the surgery, he feels more confident, healthier and happier." - Mother of patient with pectus excavatum "Prior to the surgery, I had a sunken sternum, and I had less breathing capacity. I had shortness of breath many times and I felt rather insecure about myself. However, when I went under the surgery, where they placed a metal bar under my sternum and pushed it up, results were almost instant. Following the surgery, I had more breathing room, allowing me to do activities more efficiently and not get as tired. I felt I could do more, and while recovery took time and adjusting, I felt more secure about myself. Now, I am happy with my chest and the results from the surgery, as I can do the activities I love and not get as short of breath!" - Patient with pectus excavatum

Specialized surgical care for undescended testicles, hydroceles, hernias, and circumcisions, with a focus on children’s unique needs. Genitourinary Surgery PHIMOSIS (CIRCUMCISION) UNDESCENDED TESTICLE HYDROCELE/HERNIA At Austin Pediatric Surgery, we specialize in diagnosing and treating genitourinary conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. Our experienced surgeons provide expert care to ensure the best outcomes for your child’s health and development. Contact Austin Pediatric Surgery to learn more about our genitourinary care and to schedule an appointment. We are here to provide expert guidance and personalized treatment for your child. Phimosis (Circumcision) What is it? Phimosis occurs when the foreskin cannot be retracted over the glans of the penis. Treatment Circumcision may be performed for medical reasons, including infections or scarring, or for personal or cultural preferences. The procedure is offered for children of all ages and is typically performed as an outpatient surgery. Undescended Testicle (Cryptorchidism) What is it? A condition where one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum before birth. Treatment Surgery (orchiopexy) is typically recommended between 6-12 months of age to prevent complications such as infertility or testicular cancer. The procedure involves repositioning the testicle into the scrotum. Hydrocele & Hernia What is it? Hydrocele: A fluid-filled sac around the testicle, often causing swelling in the scrotum. Hernia: A condition where abdominal tissue pushes through a weak spot in the groin. Treatment Both conditions are treated surgically to prevent complications like pain or tissue damage. These outpatient procedures typically result in quick recovery times.

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Trusted trauma surgeons at Dell Children’s Medical Center deliver expert care for severe pediatric injuries with compassion and advanced techniques. Pediatric Trauma Pediatric trauma involves severe, life-threatening injuries that require immediate hospitalization and often emergency surgery. Our team at Austin Pediatric Surgery is highly skilled in managing complex trauma cases with expertise and compassion. Expert Pediatric Trauma Care We provide trauma care at Dell Children’s Medical Center, Central Texas’s only Level 1 Pediatric Trauma Center, the highest designation for trauma care. This ensures our surgeons are fully equipped to handle the most severe injuries, offering the best outcomes for children in critical situations. Expertise you can Trust Our trauma program addresses a wide range of injuries, including: Severe fractures and orthopedic trauma Head and spinal cord injuries Internal injuries requiring surgical intervention Burns Complex lacerations & more Comprehensive, Family-Centered Care We know that trauma impacts the whole family, not just the injured child. Our team prioritizes emotional support alongside expert medical care. With access to Child Life Specialists, families receive guidance and reassurance during every step of the recovery journey. Advanced Facilities and Multidisciplinary Approach Dell Children’s Medical Center is equipped with cutting-edge diagnostics, surgical capabilities, and rehabilitation services, ensuring seamless, comprehensive care from the moment your child arrives. Our multidisciplinary team collaborates to tailor treatment plans that address both immediate and long-term recovery needs. We're Here When You Need Us Trauma can be unpredictable, but our commitment to exceptional care never wavers. For more information about our pediatric trauma program or to speak with a member of our team, please contact us anytime. To learn more, visit the Dell Children’s Emergency and Trauma Center page.

Meet Dr.Michael Josephs at Austin Pediatric Surgery! Learn more about how we're serving Central Texas. Michael Josephs, MD, FACS Meet Dr. Josephs Dr. Josephs relocated to Austin from the East Coast in 2002, drawn by the opportunity to provide exceptional surgical care to the children of Central Texas. Beyond the state-of-the-art healthcare environment, he was inspired by Austin’s vibrant culture, offering endless outdoor adventures in the Hill Country and the energy of its renowned live music scene. My Journey to Pediatric Surgery "I was introduced to surgery at the age of 5, watching my father operate on feet in his podiatry office. I was instantly compelled to continue in the spirit of helping people with surgery, although my interests extended beyond the ground level. By the age of 10 I had memorized the human anatomy, and my decision to be a surgeon never changed. During residency training I was in awe when I understood the impact that operating on a child provided to families. I can imagine no greater responsibility than taking care of someone's child, and I am honored and humbled to make an impact on so many lives." My Clinical Focus "My primary focus is to provide comprehensive care to children who require surgery, understanding that the families are my patients as well. Whenever possible, my operations are performed minimally invasively in order to reduce pain and complications. Additionally I have been working to develop new instruments and devices which will advance the care of children who undergo surgery. I also enjoy teaching new doctors in training and contributing to the future of our healthcare." Services I Provide • Neonatal Surgery • Removal of Lumps and Bumps • Inguinal and Umbilical Hernias • Pectus Excavatum/Carinatum Program • Removal of Chest and Abdominal Tumors • Complex Laparoscopic Surgery • Complex Thoracoscopic Surgery • Correction of Undescended Testes • Appendectomy • Circumcision • Complex Hepatobiliary Surgery Degree & Training Medical School Georgetown University School of Medicine Residency University of Florida College of Medicine Fellowship Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center Board Certification American Board of Pediatric Surgery American Board of Surgery Memberships • American Academy of Pediatrics • American College of Surgeons • American Pediatric Surgical Association • Children's Oncology Group • International Pediatric Endosurgery Group Providing trusted care when it matters most GET IN TOUCH

Meet the expert pediatric surgeons at Austin Pediatric Surgery. Dual board-certified and dedicated to delivering exceptional care to children in Central Texas. Meet your Team At Austin Pediatric Surgery, our highly skilled team works alongside pediatricians, family practitioners, pediatric anesthesiologists and other specialists to provide the highest standard of care for children. Our surgeons are experienced in treating a wide range of conditions and are always available to answer your questions, ensuring a seamless, compassionate care experience. Every member of our team is committed to making your child’s care as comfortable and stress-free as possible, combining advanced expertise with a warm, patient-centered approach. Surgeons Our Pediatric Surgeons Pediatric surgeons are uniquely trained to perform surgeries on infants, children, and adolescents. After completing medical school, they undergo extensive training, including five years in general surgery and two additional years in pediatric surgery fellowships. At Austin Pediatric Surgery, all our surgeons are dual board-certified in both adult general surgery and pediatric surgery, ensuring the highest level of expertise and care. With ongoing recertification, they combine advanced surgical skills with a compassionate approach tailored to meet the unique needs of each child and their family. Dr. Aaron Beckwith LEARN MORE Dr. Julia Chen LEARN MORE Dr. Nilda Garcia LEARN MORE Dr. Dani Gonzalez LEARN MORE Dr. Erich Grethel LEARN MORE Dr. Jeffrey Horwitz LEARN MORE Dr. Michael Josephs LEARN MORE Dr. Tory Meyer LEARN MORE Dr. Jessica Naiditch LEARN MORE Dr. Ankur Rana LEARN MORE Dr. Julie Sanchez LEARN MORE Advanced Practice Providers Our advanced practice providers are highly skilled healthcare professionals integral to our care team. With advanced training and expertise, they diagnose and manage a wide spectrum of medical conditions, including chronic diseases, while working in close collaboration with our physicians to ensure seamless, comprehensive care. Focused on personalized attention, they emphasize prevention, patient education and overall wellness, providing a trusted and compassionate resource for navigating your child’s healthcare journey. Jennifer Brown APRN, FNP-C, CPNP-AC Brianna Burg APRN, CPNP-AC/PC Amy Clarkson APRN, CPNP-AC Jessie Cowen DNP, APRN, CPNP-AC/PC Lisa Cronin PA-C Crystal Freeman PA-C Tamra Freeman APRN, FNP-C Julia Freitag PA-C Amy Gann APRN, CPNP-AC/PC Sarah Goldshtrom APRN, CPNP-AC/PC Lisa Gonzales APRN, CPNP-AC/PC Genny Konicke PA-C Anika Lockhart APRN, CPNP-AC Megan Malfer APRN, FNP-C, CPNP-AC Ashley Noboa APRN, FNP-C, CPNP-AC Amy Powell APRN, CPNP-AC Michelle Pullin APRN, CPNP-AC Laura Seris APRN, CPNP-AC Rachael Talentowski APRN, CPNP-AC Jordyn Thorpe APRN, CPNP-AC Tammie Warren APP MANAGER APRN, CPNP-AC/PC Clinical Staff Our clinical staff provides essential support to our surgeons and midlevel providers, ensuring efficient, compassionate care for every patient. Their dedication and expertise create a welcoming environment where families feel confident and well cared for. Reyna Arenas, RN, CPN CLINICAL MANAGER Candy Hernandez, LVN BOWEL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM Sarah James, RN, BSN CHEST WALL/ PECTUS PROGRAM Kerri Larkin, RN CENTRAL OFFICE Sonia Martinez, LVN CENTRAL OFFICE Cynthia Perry, RN NORTH OFFICE Eva Serrato, MA CENTRAL OFFICE Cheryl Scardino, BSN, RN BOWEL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM Support Staff Our dedicated support staff plays a vital role in ensuring your family's experience is seamless and stress-free. From scheduling appointments to answering your questions, they’re here to provide friendly and knowledgeable assistance every step of the way. Ruth Carter OFFICE MANAGER Bianey Chairez CENTRAL OFFICE Adrian DeLaCruz NORTH OFFICE Cristina Gonzalez BILLING MANAGER Anessa Guerrero CENTRAL OFFICE Karen Hunt LEAD SCHEDULER Victor Montalvo BILLING Yesica Portillo CENTRAL OFFICE Rosa Quispe-Brooks BILLING Jennifer Rodriguez BILLING Elizabeth Suarez SURGERY SCHEDULER

Expert care for thyroglossal duct cysts, branchial cleft cysts, thyroid conditions, and tongue-tie surgery. Compassionate pediatric surgeons in Austin. Head & Neck Surgery THYROGLOSSAL DUCT CYST BRANCHIAL CLEFT CYST THYROID DISEASE / SURGERY TONGUE TIE SURGERY Our team of pediatric surgeons specializes in diagnosing and treating various head and neck conditions. Whether congenital or acquired, we’re dedicated to providing expert care tailored to your child’s unique needs. Thyroglossal Duct Cyst What is it? A thyroglossal duct cyst is the most common neck condition that your child can be born with. It can look like a painless lump in the upper neck, which may move when swallowing or sticking out the tongue. They can become infected, which is why we recommend removing them when they are diagnosed. Evaluation and Diagnosis Diagnosis is usually made through a physical exam. An ultrasound can be used to confirm the cyst and ensure the thyroid gland is normal. Treatment Surgery (the Sistrunk procedure) removes the cyst and its associated duct under general anesthesia. Infections must be treated first. Children may go home the same day as the procedure or stay overnight. Recurrence is rare, but possible. Follow-Up Care Post-surgery instructions will include wound care and activity guidelines. Pain is managed with over the counter medications. Follow-up appointments occur 2-4 weeks after surgery. When to Call the Doctor Contact your doctor if signs of infection (redness, swelling, or fever), neck swelling, or other concerns arise. Branchial Cleft Cyst What is it? This neck condition your child is born with is from abnormal development of the different glands and structures on the side of the neck. Most commonly, it appears as a painless swelling or a small skin opening that may intermittently drain fluid. Evaluation and Diagnosis Diagnosis is based on a physical exam and ultrasound. CT or MRI may be needed for unclear cases. Treatment Surgery removes the cyst or sinus under general anesthesia, with infections treated first. The procedure lasts 1-2 hours, and your child may go home the same day or stay overnight. Recurrence risk is low. Follow-Up Care Wound care and pain management instructions will be provided, and a follow-up visit is scheduled 2-4 weeks post-surgery. When to Call the Doctor Contact your doctor if signs of infection (redness, swelling, or fever), neck swelling, or other concerns arise. Thyroid Disease What is it? The thyroid gland regulates metabolism and other body functions. Conditions include thyroid nodules, hyperthyroidism, and hypothyroidism, which may present as lumps, fatigue, or mood changes. Evaluation and Diagnosis Diagnosis involves a physical exam, blood tests, and ultrasounds. A biopsy may be recommended for thyroid nodules. Treatment Certain thyroid conditions require surgery to remove a portion of the thyroid or the entire thyroid. Our group has a specialty program dedicated to specifically taking care of children with surgical thyroid conditions, led by Dr. Jeffrey Horwitz . Follow-Up Care Post-surgery care includes monitoring hormone levels, wound care, and medication for those with full thyroid removal. A follow-up visit occurs 1-2 weeks post-surgery. When to Call the Doctor Contact your doctor if signs of infection (redness, swelling, or fever), neck swelling, or other concerns arise. Thyroid Surgery Program Although thyroid disease is less common in children compared to adults, occasionally surgical issues arise. Most commonly this is for an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) or a concerning thyroid nodule. Treating pediatric thyroid disease requires a multidisciplinary approach. As the lead surgeon of our Thyroid Surgery Program, Dr. Jeffrey Horwitz works closely with our partners in pediatric endocrinology, pediatric radiology and pediatric pathology. In addition, because recent studies have suggested that high volume thyroid surgeons (performing > 30 cases/year) have improved outcomes, Dr. Horwitz has partnered with Dr. Teresa Kroeker, one of the region’s leading adult thyroid surgeons. This collaboration between pediatric surgeons and a high-volume adult thyroid surgeon optimizes the care of children with surgical thyroid disease conferring the benefits of both a high volume thyroid surgeon and high volume pediatric surgical care. Tongue-Tie Surgery What is it? Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) occurs when a tissue band restricts tongue movement. It may interfere with feeding or speech. Treatment Pediatric tongue-tie surgery releases the tongue and is performed under general or local anesthesia, depending on age. Recovery involves minimal discomfort managed with over the counter medication.

Specializing in liver tumors, gallstones and bile duct conditions. Minimally invasive solutions for effective recovery. Liver & Gallbladder Surgery Our team specializes in pediatric liver and gallbladder surgery, providing expert care for infants, children, and adolescents. These surgeries address conditions affecting the liver, bile ducts, or gallbladder, ensuring the best possible outcomes. The pediatric surgeons at Austin Pediatric Surgery lead a multidisciplinary team which includes surgeons, gastroenterologists, and radiologists who take care of children with these disorders and make sure they get the best care possible for these conditions. Our team works to bring the most recent data and advanced techniques to the care of children with these problems. Contact us for more information or to schedule a consultation. Liver Surgery Liver Tumors Diagnosis of Liver Disease Biliary Atresia: A condition where bile ducts are blocked or missing. Choledochal Cyst: a condition where the bile ducts have abnormal tissue causing swelling Gallbladder Surgery (Cholecystectomy) Cholelithiasis: Gallstones causing pain or blockages. Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder. Biliary Dyskinesia: A poorly functioning gallbladder. Choledocholithiasis: gallstones causing blockage of the liver Signs and Symptoms Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice) Presence of an abdominal mass If you suspect liver or gallbladder issues, contact your pediatrician promptly. Diagnosis Blood tests for liver function and enzymes Imaging: Ultrasound, sometimes other testing including CT scan, MRI, or HIDA scan can help Treatment Options Liver Surgery: Biopsies or resections, using minimally invasive or open techniques. Gallbladder Surgery: Removal of the gallbladder via minimally invasive methods with minimal long-term effects. Follow-Up Care Post-surgery care depends on the procedure performed. Contact your pediatric surgeon with any concerns or questions.

Meet Dr.Jessica Naiditch at Austin Pediatric Surgery! Learn more about how we're serving Central Texas. Jessica Naiditch, MD, FACS Meet Dr. Naiditch Dr. Naiditch is a board-certified pediatric surgeon specializing in the surgical management of inflammatory bowel disease, trauma, and oncology. She leads the Austin Pediatric Surgery Inflammatory Bowel Disease Team and serves as the Trauma Medical Director at Dell Children’s Medical Center. She has published extensively on topics such as lung biopsy techniques, drug resistance in neuroblastoma, intussusception, cloacal exstrophy and tracheal remnants, reflecting her dedication to improving outcomes for pediatric patients. My Journey to Pediatric Surgery "I cherish the privilege to help children. My motivation throughout medical school and residency has been my drive to become a pediatric surgeon. I am driven by the potential for cure during an operation. At the same time, I am also deeply humbled by parents who trust us with the lives of their children." My Clinical Focus "As a pediatric surgeon, I have experience in all aspects of neonatal and pediatric surgery. Minimally invasive surgery is integrated into my practice as much as possible. My strong interest in surgical oncology and inflammatory bowel disease keeps me engaged with my medical colleagues to ensure comprehensive multidisciplinary care. As the Trauma Medical Director at Dell Children’s Medical Center, I work to ensure the injured children in Austin received the best care possible. I provide surgical care for children with congenital anomalies. I also provide care for children with surgical issues involving the neck, chest and abdomen." Services I Provide • Pediatric Trauma Care • Removal of Pediatric Tumors • Pediatric Chest Surgery • Pediatric Hernia and Hydrocele Repair • Neonatal Surgery • Minimally Invasive Surgery • Inflammatory Bowel Disease Degree & Training Medical School University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Residency McGaw Medical Center at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Fellowship University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Board Certification American Board of Pediatric Surgery American Board of Surgery Memberships • American Academy of Pediatrics • American College of Surgeons • American Pediatric Surgical Association Providing trusted care when it matters most GET IN TOUCH

Expert care for cysts, abscesses and skin masses. Safe and effective treatment tailored to children’s needs. Skin Masses & Infections SKIN MASSES SKIN INFECTIONS PILONIDAL DISEASE Our pediatric surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating a variety of skin masses and infections, ensuring your child receives expert and compassionate care. Skin Masses What are Skin Masses? Skin masses are lumps or bumps beneath the skin, most often benign and non-cancerous. Possible Diagnoses Include: Cysts: Dermoid, epidermoid, or pilonidal cysts Malformations: Lymphatic or vascular malformations Growths: Lipomas, pilomatrixomas, or neurofibromas Rare Conditions: Pyogenic granulomas, skin tags, or liposarcomas Diagnosis and Treatment Diagnosis is based on a physical exam, sometimes aided by ultrasound. Surgery to remove the mass is often recommended and typically performed as an outpatient procedure under anesthesia. Skin Infections What are Skin Infections? Skin infections can cause abscesses, which are pockets of infected fluid beneath the skin. Treatment Incision and Drainage (I&D): A small surgical cut drains the abscess, often leaving a temporary drain in place. Home Care: Wound cleaning with warm soapy water; antibiotics may be prescribed. Follow-Up: Drain removal occurs 7-14 days after surgery in our office. The surgeons at Austin Pediatric Surgery are experienced in treating skin masses and infections, ensuring safe and effective care for your child. We can often see patients on the same day symptoms arise. Contact us to schedule a consultation. Pilonidal Disease Pilonidal Disease is a very common condition in the lower back/buttock cleft where a cyst can form and the area become infected. Symptoms can range from asymptomatic to mild infections to severe abscesses and open wounds. There is a range of treatments depending on the severity of disease and the presence of infection.