What are the side effects of surgery? 

Surgery for neuroblastoma aims to remove as much of the tumour as safely possible. As with any operation, surgery can cause side effects. The type and severity of side effects depend on where the tumour is located, how complex the surgery is, and your child’s overall health. 

Not all children experience the same side effects. Your child’s surgical and medical team will monitor them closely and support recovery. 

Short-term side effects 

Short-term side effects usually occur in the days or weeks after surgery. These may include: 

• Pain or discomfort: this may occur at the operation site or elsewhere in the body. Medication to manage pain may be given to address this. 

• Tiredness and feeling unwell: children often feel very tired and generally unwell during and after treatment. Rest and gentle activities can help. 

• Loss of appetite: some children may need additional nutritional support, such as a nasogastric (NG) tube, if they are unable to eat enough. 

• Temporary changes in bowel habits: such as constipation or diarrhoea. 

• Risk of infection: this can include infection at the wound site. 

• Bleeding or bruising: around the area of surgery. 

• Scarring: this will fade over time. 

Your child’s team will check wound healing, monitor for complications, and help manage these effects during recovery. 

Possible longer-term side effects 

Most children recover well from surgery for neuroblastoma, and long-term side effects directly caused by surgery are uncommon.  

In some cases, particularly when a tumour is very close to important nerves or organs, there may be longer-term effects related to the area of the operation, such as changes in movement or function. Your child’s surgical team will explain any specific risks before surgery and will only proceed if the benefits outweigh the potential risks. 

Recovery and support 

Recovery after surgery takes time, and children may need extra support as they regain strength. Your child’s healthcare team will give guidance on pain management, activity levels and wound care, and will arrange follow-up appointments to check recovery. 

If you have concerns about your child’s recovery or notice any new or worsening symptoms, you should contact your child’s treatment team for advice.