Paediatric surgery is a medical speciality that focuses on the surgical treatment of newborns, infants, children, and adolescents. It is a rewarding yet challenging profession. The task of a doctor is doubly challenging, as their patients might be so small that they can’t even explain their problems. Paediatric surgeons are specially trained to diagnose, manage, and perform surgical procedures on young patients, addressing various congenital and acquired conditions. However, it is crucial to understand that they are treating a child, not an adult.
Paediatric surgery encompasses various subspecialties, including neonatal surgery, paediatric general surgery, paediatric urology, paediatric cancer surgery, paediatric neurosurgery, and more. While it poses challenges, paediatric surgery in India has witnessed significant advancements in recent years, with a growing number of specialised centres and skilled professionals. Several names are emerging in this sector, but one that stands out for its exemplary yet personalised care is Dr KK’s Kidsurg Clinic. Headed by Dr. Kshama Kulkarni and located in the heart of Pune, Maharashtra, this clinic is ideal for specialised and effective childcare.
Dr. Kshama understands the critical nature of paediatric surgery and treats her patients as if they are her own children. She firmly believes that no child should be denied access to advanced treatment options available in paediatric surgery and urology. Having received training at prestigious institutions such as the Christian Medical College, Vellore, she has collaborated with renowned surgeons in her field. Dr. Kshama is acclaimed for her expertise, professionalism, and patient-centric approach. Positive feedback from patients and their families highlights her skills and steadfast dedication to delivering quality care.
Paediatric surgeons collaborate closely with other healthcare professionals, including paediatricians, anaesthesiologists, and nurses, to deliver comprehensive care to young patients. Considering children’s unique physiological and psychological aspects, they adapt surgical techniques and approaches to cater to the specific needs of paediatric populations. Dr. Kshama Kulkarni, the specialist paediatric surgeon overseeing the clinic, is available for consultations at various hospitals in Pune, such as Surya Mother & Child Super Speciality in Wakad, Mai Mangeshkar Hospital in Warje, Cloudnine hospital, SBR and Pimplesaudagar, Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital in Hadapsar, and Inamdar Multispeciality Hospital in Fatimanagar. She also serves as a panel consultant at Jupiter Hospital in Baner, Manipal hospital in Baner, Aditya Birla Hospital in Thergaon, Motherhood Hospital in Kharadi. With over 20 years of experience in the field, she possesses extensive expertise in paediatric surgical treatments, including hernia, hydrocele, phimosis, undescended testis, hypospadias, and hydronephrosis, laparoscopic and endoscopic surgeries among others.
Advancements in paediatric surgery have resulted in enhanced outcomes and decreased invasiveness in numerous procedures, thereby significantly improving paediatric patients’ overall well-being and quality of life. The collaborative approach in paediatric surgical care frequently engages a multidisciplinary team to guarantee comprehensive and specialised treatment for children with a range of medical conditions. At Dr KK’s Kidsurg Clinic, there is a commitment to providing advanced and efficient paediatric surgical treatments, catering to patients from newborns to adolescents.
In the compelling tales of childcare, Dr KK’s Kidsurg Clinic demands standout recognition. We engaged in a conversation with Dr. Kshama Kulkarni to dig deeper into the clinic’s inspirational journey.
Immerse yourself in their narrative, exploring the complex world of paediatric surgery and the remarkable work of Dr. Kshama that has elevated Dr KK’s Kidsurg Clinic to the esteemed title of ‘The Best Childcare Hospital of the Year.’
Building a Strong Foundation
Dr. Kshama boasts nearly two decades of experience. Her journey began with an MBBS and internship at GRANT MEDICAL COLLEGE AND JJ GROUP OF HOSPITALS, MUMBAI, followed by a successful selection for MS GENERAL SURGERY at GMC NAGPUR.
During her three years of specialisation in surgery, Dr. Kshama dedicated six months to paediatric surgery. Under guidance, she operated on numerous paediatric surgical patients, sparking her keen interest in the field. Reflecting on this pivotal experience, Dr. Kshama notes, “I developed my interest in Paediatric surgery, and hence I chose to do my super specialisation (M. Ch) in Paediatric surgery. I got selected for M. Ch in one of the prestigious institutes of India – CHRISTIAN MEDICAL COLLEGE, VELLORE.”
Throughout her three-years of Paediatric surgical residency at CMC Vellore, Dr. Kshama performed a diverse array of complex surgeries, including urological cases, neonatal surgeries, thoracic surgeries, paediatric plastic surgery, cancer surgeries, and laparoscopic and endoscopic surgeries.
Dr. Kshama’s dedication to her training is evident, as she actively sought out interesting and complicated cases, gaining valuable experience. “The greater number of cases we get to see and perform gives us more confidence to deliver good results in our operated patients,” she emphasises. To stay up-to-date of current treatment trends, Dr. Kshama pursued and completed her MRCS from the Royal College of Surgeons of England, in addition to a DNB in general surgery.
Post-M. Ch in Paediatric surgery, Dr. Kshama pursued international exposure to refine her skills. She visited NECKER INFANTS MALAIDE in Paris, France, to learn new paediatric and urology techniques, including foetal surgery. She also undertook a learning stint at CHILDREN’S NATIONAL HOSPITAL, WASHINGTON DC, USA, focusing on Paediatric urology and robotic surgeries. Additionally, Dr. Kshama completed an advanced course in Paediatric minimal access surgery (keyhole surgery) and received training in Paediatric laparoscopic surgeries.
This commitment to staying current with advances in Paediatric surgery and urology has significantly contributed to Dr. Kshama’s success. “After completing my training, I started working as a consultant Paediatric surgeon in many reputed hospitals of PUNE, and simultaneously started my own clinic – Dr KKs Kidsurg – advanced Paediatric surgery clinic, in Pune from more than a decade now,” shares Dr. Kshama.
Nurturing Paediatric Wellness through Kidsurg Clinic
Dr. Kshama initially embarked on her medical career by providing consultations in hospitals. However, she soon recognised the importance of creating a space where patients felt comfortable for regular visits and where accessibility and streamlined communication were paramount. Reflecting on this decision, Dr. Kshama states, “Since we see patients from all socioeconomic groups, it’s easier for us to cater to patients from all classes in our own setups and keep the fees accordingly.” This realisation inspired her to establish her own clinic in the heart of Pune, specifically in the Kothrud area, ensuring accessibility for patients from all areas, including those outside Pune.
Establishing the clinic was not without its challenges. Dr. Kshama notes that there remains a lack of awareness among the general public regarding Paediatric surgery as a distinct branch of medicine. “Slowly, as patients see our surgical results and better patient outcomes, now many approach us directly when they come to know that their child has a surgical problem,” she shares. Dr. Kshama emphasises the unique nature of Paediatric surgery, stating, “A CHILD IS NOT A MINI ADULT,” underscoring the need for specialised care tailored to the distinct needs of children.
The clinic caters to children of all ages, from newborns to adolescents, addressing a wide spectrum of surgical issues. Dr. Kshama expresses her vision: “Our vision is to create awareness among lay people to approach none other than a qualified Paediatric surgeon in case their child faces any surgical issue.” The clinic strives to provide comprehensive care, from minor concerns like cuts, burns, and abscesses to more complex issues such as congenital anomalies, kidney problems, and cancers requiring surgery.
Dr. Kshama’s clinic is dedicated to promoting awareness and ensuring that every child with a surgical concern receives specialised care from qualified Paediatric surgeons. The vision is rooted in the belief that children, at every stage of development, deserve access to the expertise and compassionate care that none other than qualified Paediatric surgeons can provide.
Excellence in Paediatric Surgical Care
Kidsurg Clinic offers an array of advanced and efficient Paediatric surgical treatments. With a commitment to providing top-notch care to young patients, the clinic addresses a range of conditions, including hernia, hydrocele, phimosis, undescended testis, hypospadias, hydronephrosis, and many more.
The clinic prides itself on its state-of-the-art infrastructure, ensuring a conducive environment for ethical surgical practices, early diagnosis, and accurate treatment of surgical problems in children. The following specialised services are offered:
Paediatric Surgery: Covering a broad spectrum of surgical interventions for children.
Paediatric Urology: Addressing urological (kidney – bladder) issues affecting Paediatric patients.
Paediatric Laparoscopy: Utilising minimally invasive techniques for surgical procedures.
Gastrointestinal Surgery: Specialised care for Paediatric gastrointestinal conditions.
Hepatobiliary Surgeries: Focused on surgical interventions related to the liver and bile ducts.
Thoracic Surgeries: Dealing with surgical issues in the chest region of Paediatric patients.
Paediatric Onco-Surgery: Providing surgical solutions for Paediatric cancer cases.
Paediatric plastic Surgery: Addressing surgical concerns like cleft lip and palate, syndactyly, polydactyly, burns, cosmetic surgery for cuts and wounds etc.
Neonatal Surgery: Specialised surgical care for newborns along with antenatal counselling
Endoscopic Surgery: Employing endoscopic techniques for surgical procedures.
Day Care Surgery: Offering surgical interventions with minimal hospitalisation.
Recognising the diverse needs of its patients, Kidsurg Clinic goes beyond traditional in-person consultations. The clinic embraces technology by providing online consultations for patients who are geographically distant. Additionally, the clinic ensures seamless communication by sending appointment reminders and assists patients with insurance-related queries, exemplifying a patient-centric approach to healthcare.
At Kidsurg Clinic, the focus extends beyond treating surgical conditions; it is about ensuring the well-being of each child under their care. With a commitment to excellence and a range of specialised services, the clinic remains dedicated to providing optimal Paediatric surgical care.
Offering Paediatric Surgery with Compassionate Care
Dr KK’s Kidsurg Clinic stands as a specialised Paediatric surgical center committed to providing unparalleled surgical care for infants, children, and adolescents. The clinic is meticulously designed to cater to the distinctive medical, emotional, and developmental needs of its young patients, ensuring a child-friendly and supportive environment.
At the heart of the clinic’s mission is the commitment to delivering high-quality surgical care while prioritising the overall well-being of Paediatric patients. Driven by a philosophy of holistic care, the clinic focuses on the unique aspects of Paediatric healthcare.
Key Features of the Clinic:
Expertise in Paediatric Surgical Care:
– Led by experienced professionals, Dr KK’s Kidsurg Clinic offers a wealth of experience in dealing with a diverse range of Paediatric surgical problems.
Ethical and Rational Care:
– The clinic is committed to ethical practices, ensuring that every recommendation and intervention is based on rational and thoughtful consideration.
Holistic Care Approach:
– Kidsurg Clinic goes beyond surgical interventions, providing complete holistic care throughout the treatment journey.
Philosophy of Surgical Decision-Making:
Dr. Kshama, the driving force behind Dr KK’s Kidsurg Clinic, emphasises a practical approach to surgical decisions. She states, “In spite of being a surgical clinic, surgery is recommended only if it is absolutely necessary, and all other non-surgical options are explored before advising surgery.” This approach reflects the clinic’s dedication to considering alternatives and minimising invasive procedures whenever possible.
Patient-Centric Consultations:
A hallmark of Dr KK’s Kidsurg Clinic is its commitment to open and thorough consultations. Dr. Kshama highlights, “A genuine opinion is given to the parents taking all factors into consideration, enough time is given for clearing all doubts and for consultation till parents are satisfied with the answers.” This patient-centric approach ensures that parents are well-informed, actively involved in decision-making, and content with the care provided.
By integrating medical expertise with a patient-centric philosophy, the clinic aims to create a reassuring environment for both young patients and their families.
Beyond Scalpels
Being a child surgeon is undoubtedly challenging, and Dr. Kshama acknowledges the unique set of challenges that come with this responsibility. Discussing the details of her work, she notes, “Indeed it’s a big challenge, as there are always loads of relatives to deal with when it comes to a child’s disease, and especially when a child requires surgery.”
Despite these challenges, Dr. Kshama is committed to providing exceptional care not only by addressing medical complexities but also by offering extensive support to the families involved. She emphasises, “We counsel them adequately, keep discussing with them the advantages, risks, complications we can face and prepare them and be with them throughout the whole treatment process.”
In cases of antenatally (during pregnancy) detected anomalies, Dr. Kshama takes a proactive approach by initiating counselling during the antenatal period. This early intervention aims to emotionally and financially prepare parents for the upcoming treatment, recognising the importance of comprehensive support.
Beyond addressing medical challenges, Dr. Kshama goes the extra mile to create a welcoming environment for her young patients and their families. She ensures timely appointments, minimising waiting times to prevent irritation for the kids. The clinic’s interior is decorated with kid-friendly wall paintings, and toys are provided for children to engage with. Dr. Kshama also caters to the needs of breastfeeding mothers by offering a covered space for them.
Reflecting on the rewarding aspects of her profession, Dr. Kshama expresses, “Kids are very genuine, they cry only when they are in pain; once the trouble is gone the smile is back on their face. The most rewarding aspect of our branch is to see that SMILE back on our patients face and seeing them back on their toes.”
Addressing the initial panic experienced by parents, she adds, “Parents are panicked when they approach us, as infants and small kids can’t exactly tell what’s wrong with them and can’t tell symptoms, so we use all our clinical skills and diagnose and treat their problem. It’s challenging many times, but we are relieved when we bring the parents back to normal from their panic!”
Dr. Kshama’s approach transcends the technicalities of surgery, encompassing emotional support, family involvement, and creating a child-friendly environment. Her commitment to both the medical and emotional aspects of Paediatric care reflects a compassionate journey beyond the operating room.
Empowering Parents Through Education and Awareness
Numerous initiatives strive to support and empower parents, recognising their pivotal role in nurturing healthy child development and family well-being. These diverse initiatives provide valuable resources, education, and assistance to equip parents with the knowledge and tools necessary to create nurturing environments for their children.
Dr KK’s Kidsurg Clinic, under the guidance of Dr. Kshama, is actively contributing to this by organising initiatives to raise awareness about Paediatric surgery. Dr. Kshama shares, “Yes. We try to educate the parents whenever we get an opportunity.” An annual highlight is the celebration of Paediatric Surgery Week in the month of June, marked by a unique theme each year. During this week, the clinic conducts informative camps, providing a platform to educate parents and disseminate valuable information. Also, on 29th December each year, we celebrate ‘The National Paediatric surgery day’ to spread awareness about paediatric surgery and the right of the child to receive surgical care by qualified paediatric surgeons only.
To further enhance parental knowledge, Dr KK’s Kidsurg Clinic employs various channels. Dr. Kshama explains, “We write articles on common Paediatric surgery problems, preoperative and postoperative care of kids, safe OT environment for Kids, Do’s and Don’ts before surgery in kids, and many other topics, and parents can access it on our website.”
Leveraging modern communication platforms, Dr KK’s Kidsurg Clinic extends its reach through educational videos available on their YouTube channel. These videos cover a spectrum of topics related to patient care, offering an accessible and visual medium for parents to engage with valuable information.
Dr KK’s Kidsurg Clinic’s multifaceted approach to education and awareness explains paediatric surgery and empowers parents with the knowledge they need. By actively engaging with the community through camps, articles, and videos, the clinic contributes to building a more informed and confident parenting community, thereby promoting the health and well-being of children.
Sharing Secrets of Success
Throughout her illustrious career, Dr. Kshama has cultivated extensive knowledge and experience, supported by a solid educational foundation from top universities. Her tenure with esteemed healthcare institutions has provided exposure to handling critical situations, contributing significantly to her wealth of expertise.
Dr. Kshama imparts her wisdom, emphasising the importance of continuous learning and staying in touch of advancements in the field. She advises, “Keep updating your knowledge, learn advanced and newer treatments.”
Beyond technical proficiency, Dr. Kshama places great importance on ethical conduct, honesty, and authenticity in her work. Recognising the critical nature of childcare, she imparts a timeless piece of advice: “Treat each child as your own.” This ethos reflects her deep sense of responsibility and empathy, ensuring that every child under her care receives the same level of consideration and compassion as if they were her own.
Dr. Kshama’s words serve as a guiding light for fellow healthcare professionals, reinforcing the principles of continuous learning, ethical practice, and a compassionate approach to childcare.
From Medals to Miracles
While being recognised as a gold medallist in Paediatric surgery from Tamil Nadu University is a significant accolade, Dr. Kshama finds her most remarkable accomplishments in the transformative impact she makes on the lives of her young patients. For her, true success lies in the ability to cure children or, at the very least, enhance their quality of life and reintegrate them into society, allowing them to reclaim an active childhood.
Dr. Kshama takes immense pride in the ripple effect of her work—when treated, patients become advocates, spreading awareness about Paediatric surgery. She considers this organic word-of-mouth promotion as a monumental achievement, contributing to a greater understanding of the field and the importance of early intervention.
With a sense of fulfilment in her voice, Dr. Kshama shares, “Many times ‘we create what GOD has not given them at birth.’ Example: congenital anomalies like – oesophageal atresia with tracheoesophageal fistula, diaphragmatic hernia, intestinal atresias, hypospadias, bladder exstrophy, anorectal malformations, when we successfully repair such anomalies, it’s like giving a new life to that baby, that’s the greatest accomplishment for me!”
This statement captures the essence of Dr. Kshama’s dedication—to not only many physical anomalies but to offer a renewed and vibrant life upon the young souls under her care. Her satisfaction lies in witnessing the transformative journey of these children, as they overcome congenital challenges and embrace the joys of a healthy childhood.
Testimonials of Touching Lives
“My younger son was diagnosed with VUR grade 4, and we were very worried. When we visited Dr Kshama, she gave us details about the entire process and explained it calmly. As surgery was inevitable, she explained the entire procedure and performed the surgery. It was successful and he has recovered well. She is very supportive and prompt in providing the support and resolving the query. I would like to say a big thank you to Doctor.”
“Thank you, Doctor! Dr. Kshama Kulkarni is a wonderful surgeon. She is a very professional and talented doctor. My son was having a hypospadias issue. We consulted Dr. Kshama Kulkarni. She suggested some tests and 3 months of injections. She explained the case in detail to us. My Son’s surgery was conducted by her a few days back and now he is recovering. Not only has she taken great care of my baby, but also, she is lovely to speak with at every appointment. It’s rare to find a doctor that combines such personal touches and care for a patient as a person with outstanding quality of medical care. I would strongly refer her. Thank you so much Ma’am!!”
“Dr Kshama Kulkarni is one of the best paediatric urologist surgeons. Dr Kulkarni and her team are really very efficient and caring. Doing their best to keep the patient comfortable. My son was having urine reflux, and we were really scared. After we met Dr Kulkarni, she explained all about the reflux and the surgery and made us comfortable. I don’t have enough words to thank Dr Kulkarni. She took very good care of my son before, during his hospital stay and his regular checkup’s.”
“I was having recurring episodes of urinary tract infection and was later diagnosed with Reflux. We consulted Dr. Kshama Kulkarni for my surgery and she suggested some tests after which it was diagnosed that I also had a complicated case of ectopic ureters. Along with successfully executing my surgery, she was very compassionate and reassuring throughout the treatment. Regardless of it being quite a complicated surgery, she did not once make me nervous about my complications. Even after the surgery, she has been constantly assisting me and I feel much better now. She has in a way given me a new life and for that I am forever grateful to her.”
“Highly experienced doctor and high counselling power. Madam performed surgery of our 8.5 years old son and he is recovering now. When we know the problem of our child as a parent, we were shocked and tense, but after came in contact with madam, Kshama madam gave us confidence about the rectification after surgery. Although I am from out of Maharashtra, Doctor always guided us and provided responses for our all queries telephonically and through mail communications patiently. Kshama madam provides very good care for the patient, and I would strongly recommend doctor for paediatric surgery and urological problems.”
“We visited Dr Kshama for frequent UTI issue with my daughter. She had a complicated Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) grade 5. Dr Kshama looked all the reports and took proper history of my daughter. She explained us very well about the issue and suggested a ureteral reimplantation surgery. She performed the surgery on my 4.6 years old daughter and surgery was successful. My daughter is recovering fast. We are very much happy with the way Dr. Kshama handled our daughter’s case. She is highly qualified and experienced in all children surgical problem. She is one of the best child surgeons in Pune. We highly recommend Dr. Kshama for Paediatrics surgical cases. Thank you, Doctor.”
“Indeed, God cannot be everywhere, so he has sent his Angels as DOCTORS with Excellence and Selflessness to us. I found this entirely true with Dr. Kshama Kulkarni, our best hope in those toughest times. On 10th June 2021, my new born son was detected with a VUR Grade 5. We tried to search for the best doctor a paediatric surgeon and after many Google searches my wife suggested meeting Dr. Kshama Kulkarni based on the positive reviews on various websites. The Doctor is a down-to-earth personality whose primary purpose is to cure the disease and not to trouble the patient/family with unnecessary tests and procedures. She informed us in great detail about the problem and the various kinds of Surgical options available with the pros & cons of each. This helped us understand the procedure and also the risks involved. However, as a paediatric Surgeon and during & post-Surgery care Dr. Kshama Kulkarni’s role was most critical. Her confidence in seeing the vision of the child post-surgery journey was so clear that it gave us confidence. Finally, once the surgery finished Dr. Kshama Kulkarni called us & explained the whole procedure went as per plan and the surgery was successful. The most elating experience was that during our 20-day stay post-surgery, there was not a single day when Dr. Kshama Kulkarni did not visit even on a Sunday she was there on time. I have not seen any doctors having that level of dedication. Finally, we got discharged on the 20th day as planned and are currently on a path of recovery and am glad to see my son normally. We thank God and Dr. Kshama Kulkarni for their great support.”