Pediatric Surgeon Lets Kids Dress as Superheroes to Ease Surgery Anxiety

When Leandro Brandão Guimarães started operating on children fifteen years ago, he noticed many were terrified by the sterile environment and the rule barring parents from the operating room. Determined to change this, he refused to proceed without parental presence before anesthesia and sought ways to empower his patients. After an unaffordable idea involving a small electric car, he purchased superhero and princess costumes from a Brazilian vendor using his own money.

Children now have the option to dress up, run or be carried down the hallway, turning the moment into a joyful experience. He also provides clear, truthful explanations of the procedure and keeps toys in his office to build rapport. The approach has lessened distress, fostered a positive atmosphere among staff and families, and left families with the costume as a reminder of the child's bravery.