A new space for kids: Pediatric Surgery and Specialty Clinic reopens in Cypress

Two-year-old Malakai Bettencourt squeezed the giant scissors shut. And with that, the Pediatric Surgery and Specialty clinic was officially open at the Cypress Building.

Bettencourt was the guest of honor at Monday’s ribbon-cutting ceremony. He was born in UC Davis Health’s neonatal intensive care unit with a tracheoesophageal fistula, an abnormal connection of his airway and esophagus. He has since undergone spine surgery and gotten to know many of the health system’s pediatric surgery specialists.

This clinic in particular will be a new home for Bettencourt and his family. Clinic staff, leaders and supporters gathered to celebrate the relocation and recognize the teamwork behind it. The moment marked more than a move; it represented a milestone for pediatric surgical care.

Its new Cypress location is the first dedicated outpatient clinic on the UC Davis Health campus for pediatric surgical patients. For years, Pediatric Surgery shared clinic space with Dermatology and ENT colleagues. Now, with a space of their own, the team can better support comprehensive ambulatory care for infants, children, adolescents and adults with pediatric surgical conditions. Services include general surgery consultations, colorectal care, GI motility and pelvic reconstructive care, multidisciplinary coordination for congenital conditions, pre- and post-operative visits, and follow-up care for children with traumatic injuries. Designed to be welcoming and child-friendly, the clinic also supports highly specialized programs, including individualized care for neurodiverse children through UC Davis’s PATH (Promoting Accessibility to Healthcare) program.

UC Davis Health is one of the largest pediatric trauma centers in the nation, so the new clinic fills a critical gap, said pediatric surgeon Payam Saadai. “This space will be our first dedicated outpatient clinic for the follow-up of children who have suffered traumatic injuries.”

The event recognized the extra preparation it takes to customize a pediatric space. Executive Director of Ambulatory Care Ann Tompkins praised Plant Operations & Maintenance, saying, they went above and beyond to “make sure this space is a bright, inviting experience for our families and their young patients.”

Pediatric surgeon Jonathan Kohler added that helping young patients takes many forms. “Sometimes that means doing surgery late at night and sometimes that means repainting walls,” he said. “Now UC Davis is an even better place to take care of children.”

Together, this new clinic stands as a testament to collaboration, dedication and a shared commitment to pediatric patients and their families.