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F.N.: What are the special difficulties that Pediatric Urology has, that are not encountered in adult Urology?
Prof. S.T.: To me, adult Urology is simple. When it comes to cancer and oncology, the main concept is straightforward. You determine the grade and stage of the disease through imaging and biopsy. Then, you refer to the Guidelines which outline the appropriate actions based on the stage and grade. However, Pediatric Urology poses more challenges as congenital abnormalities vary greatly and each patient is unique. It requires a great deal of experience to differentiate between subtle details not covered in the Guidelines. Additionally, treating children is complex as even small actions can have significant impacts on the outcome. Unlike oncology where you simply remove the tumor, in Pediatrics you must create a solution that will function properly for the next several decades. This responsibility and challenge make Pediatric Urology one of the most difficult subspecialties. Dealing with children adds another layer of difficulty, but I personally prefer working with children over adults, as it is more fun and joy.
F.N.: How do you manage the emotional aspects of working with pediatric patients and their families, especially in delicate situations?
Prof. S.T.: If you are a professional, you need to be able to eliminate all emotional feelings and act
professionally. However, that's not always the case. We all know that we can get emotional, especially when dealing with children, and sometimes even more so with parents. I believe it is important to remain professional, especially when making decisions, as there may be pressure, mostly from parents, that could influence your decision-making. It is important not to let that happen. You should try to openly explain every little detail or potential complication to the parents, as they are often panicky. They are usually young parents and may create difficulties or troubles for you. Try to be open with them, explain the issue, and put in efforts to address the problem, particularly with any complications that may arise. The main challenge comes when there is a complication; after a surgery, you expect a child to recover quickly, which is usually the case with children who tend to recover fast. However, there are times when they don't. It's crucial to build trust with the parents by showing that you know what you are doing and are committed to solving the problem. Do not let yourself be affected by a crying child or parent. Avoid getting panicky, think wisely, and handle the situation with knowledge and experience. Managing complications with children can be challenging and stressful, and at times, you may get emotional. It takes time and experience to deal with such situations. In my opinion, Pediatric Urology within Urology is a field that requires more experience because each patient is unique. The more patients you see, the more you learn. Even after
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