Paediatric surgery in Zadar
At Poliklinika Kranjčec in Zadar we perform outpatient surgical procedures in children — hernia, phimosis, ingrown toenail and pilonidal sinus surgery, as well as removal of moles, atheromas and lipomas. A gentle, child-friendly approach, with no referral and no long waits.
A calm and safe path through the process
In our paediatric surgery centre we perform a wide range of procedures tailored to your child's needs to ensure the best possible care for your little ones.
We understand that every step of a surgical procedure matters, especially when it involves your child. That is why we are here to give you a calm and safe path through the process — from the first examination to full recovery.
What we operate on in children.
Phimosis
Phimosis surgery (circumcision) treats a condition in which the foreskin cannot be pulled back. Part or all of the foreskin is removed to free the glans of the penis — the goal is to improve hygiene, reduce the risk of infection and ease normal urination.
Hernia surgery
A routine surgical procedure that repairs a bulge of tissue (a hernia) through a weak point in the abdominal wall. The surgeon returns the protruding organs to their place and reinforces the abdominal wall to prevent recurrence.
Ingrown toenail
Surgical treatment of a painful condition in which the edge of the nail grows into the skin, causing pain, redness and possible infection. Performed under local anaesthesia with a fast recovery — the child returns to normal activities without discomfort.
Pilonidal sinus
Surgical treatment of inflammation or infection of a pilonidal sinus in the lower back: opening and cleaning the affected area, removing damaged tissue and ensuring drainage.
When to see a paediatric surgeon.
Most conditions we operate on in children are not urgent, but they are best addressed in good time — while the procedures are smaller and recovery is faster. Get in touch if you notice any of the following in your child:
- A swelling in the groin or navel
A visible bulge that increases with crying, coughing or straining may be an inguinal or umbilical hernia. - Foreskin problems (phimosis)
The foreskin cannot be pulled back over the glans, infections recur, or the child struggles to urinate. - A painful, inflamed nail edge
Redness, swelling and discharge along the edge of the big toe point to an ingrown toenail. - Swelling or discharge in the lower back
A painful swelling above the buttocks, especially in teenagers, may be a pilonidal sinus. - Moles, atheromas and lipomas
Skin lesions that grow, change or bother the child — for assessment and possible removal.
We also treat pilonidal sinus with a minimally invasive laser method, and for adult patients see our general surgery.
Dr. Željana Bogdanić
paediatric surgery specialistShe graduated from medical school in Zagreb in 1997. From 1998 to 2010 she worked in the emergency department in Split, and in 2015 she passed her specialist exam. Since then she has worked dedicatedly as a paediatric surgeon at Šibenik General Hospital.
Dr. Bogdanić is experienced in performing a large number of paediatric surgical procedures — hernia, phimosis and pilonidal sinus surgery, and the removal of moles, atheromas, lipomas and ingrown toenails in children.
Medically reviewed by: Dr. Željana Bogdanić, paediatric surgery specialist · Content last reviewed:
Your child in safe hands.
Patience and calm tailored to the child — without fear or stress.
Most procedures are performed conservatively, with a fast recovery.
Throughout the whole process — from examination to recovery.
Paediatric surgery — parents' common questions.
Do I need a referral for a paediatric surgeon in Zadar?
No. Appointments at Poliklinika Kranjčec are private, without a referral from a family doctor or paediatrician. You book directly by phone at +385 23 324 881 or via the contact form.
At what age is phimosis operated on in boys?
In most boys, physiological phimosis resolves spontaneously by the age of 3–5, so surgery is usually not rushed. The procedure is considered for recurrent infections, scarring of the foreskin or difficulty urinating — the decision is made by the paediatric surgeon after examining the child.
Is general anaesthesia required for the procedures?
It depends on the procedure and the child's age. Minor procedures such as an ingrown toenail or removing small skin lesions are performed under local anaesthesia. The type of anaesthesia for each procedure is agreed with the parents at the examination.
How long is recovery after hernia surgery in children?
Children generally recover faster than adults. Lighter activities are possible within a few days, and a return to full physical activity is usually within 2–4 weeks, following the surgeon's instructions.
Can I be with my child during the examination and procedure?
Yes. Parents are with the child during the examination and preparation, and usually also during procedures performed under local anaesthesia. A calm parent is the best support for a child.
How do I prepare my child for surgery?
Calmly and simply, in an age-appropriate way, explain what to expect — without frightening them. You will receive all the practical instructions (eating and drinking before the procedure, medication, what to bring) from us when booking the appointment.
Can a pilonidal sinus also be treated with a laser?
Yes. Alongside conventional surgery, we also treat pilonidal sinus with a minimally invasive laser method, with a smaller wound and faster recovery. Read more on the laser pilonidal sinus treatment page.
Book an appointment for your child
Tel. +385 23 324 881 · poliklinika.kranjcec@gmail.com
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