Christine Rader, MD, FACS, is a pediatric surgeon who consults with and treats patients in Danbury, Westport and Hartford.
Get to know more about her in this Q&A.
What inspired you to pursue a career in pediatric surgery?
I always loved kids and taking care of kids. Growing up, I always was the babysitter, tutor, mother’s helper, etc. Then, during medical school, I chose surgery because I loved working with my hands and fine, meticulous procedures. The two came together with pediatric surgery.
Please share a particular patient experience or story that has left a lasting impression on you.
Part of my practice focuses on chest wall disorders. I had a patient’s mother call me when her 16-year-old son, who never did any physical activity, got up and ran around the block after I had surgically corrected his chest. I see many patients who develop new self-confidence and new participation in sports and physical activity after their chest is fixed.
What are some uncommon reasons for performing surgery on a child?
Congenital (born with) anatomic abnormalities. For example, if the esophagus is not connected, or the GI tract has a blockage somewhere.
The Ones Parents Trust With Chest Wall Deformity Treatment
Connecticut Children’s Center for Chest Wall Deformities treats pediatric patients affected by pectus excavatum, pectus carinatum and other deformities of the chest wall. We offer services in Hartford, Danbury, and Westport, CT.
What guidance would you offer to parents who are uncertain about proceeding with surgery for their child?
Pediatric surgeons have specialized training to take care of kids. Some adult surgeons will operate on children as well, but the best all-around care for children happens at a children’s hospital or health system.
What insights can you provide families when they have a child coping with an uneven sternum, one of the most common reasons for surgery?
As more and more families seek care for this common chest wall deformity, we are developing more and more options. The surgical option is very safe and has excellent results, but all options are discussed and considered depending on the nature of the problem.
Share one fun fact others may not know about you!
My family and I are huge UCONN Women’s Basketball fans!