Question
A child has been diagnosed with Down syndrome, and the parents are not well-informed about the condition. What postoperative complications can occur after Down syndrome surgery?
Answer
Down syndrome, also known as trisomy 21, is a chromosomal abnormality disorder that has been recognized early on. Patients often exhibit significant intellectual disability, distinctive facial features, growth and development disorders, and a higher risk of deformities. Possible postoperative complications include congenital heart disease, tracheoesophageal fistula, umbilical hernia, leukemia, and others. There is currently no way to prevent this condition, and treatment is the main approach. Parents should closely monitor their child’s symptoms and provide as much assistance as possible to ensure appropriate treatment is received, avoiding the blind use of medication to alleviate symptoms.