The paediatric surgeon's particular area of expertise lies in the surgical treatment of children, from birth to when they stop growing.

The paediatric surgeon is particularly familiar with the diagnosis and treatment of congenital deformities and the special disorders that can affect children. The surgical treatment of umbilical or other hernias also belongs to his domain, as do obstructions of the bowel. He is also trained in surgical, bandaging and plastering techniques for treating injuries following, say, an accident.