Anatomy of the Infant and Child

Abstract

There are key differences between the anatomy of the child and adult, most marked in newborn infants. These differences affect the accuracy of surface anatomical landmarks, surgical approaches and procedures, physiological and cardiorespiratory parameters and responses, and the ability to compensate for congenital malformations and/or the effects of surgical treatment. Anatomical differences in children that are particularly relevant to pediatric surgeons are discussed using a systems approach, focusing on growth and proportions, cardiovascular and respiratory systems, the abdominal wall and gastrointestinal tract, and the genitourinary, musculoskeletal, and nervous systems.