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Paediatric inguinal hernia

OVERVIEW

An inguinal hernia is a common condition where a portion of the intestine or abdominal tissue bulges through a weakened area or opening in the inguinal canal found in the groin area. An inguinal hernia is more common in boys than girls and is often diagnosed in infants and young children. It can cause discomfort, pain, and swelling in the affected area and may require surgical intervention to correct it. Early detection and treatment of inguinal hernia help prevent complications and ensure a good outcome.

Signs and symptoms of inguinal hernia

The symptoms of an inguinal hernia depend on the location and size of the hernia. In some cases, there may be no visible symptoms. However, common signs and symptoms can include the following:

A swelling or bulge in the groin area may be more prominent when your child is crying or straining.
Pain or discomfort in the groin, especially during physical activity, coughing, or bowel movements.
Nausea and vomiting may occur if the hernia becomes trapped.
Irritability, restlessness, or crying, especially in infants.
Bladder or bowel habit changes such as constipation or difficulty urinating.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your child, it is important to seek medical attention promptly to avoid any complications.

Treatment

The primary treatment for a paediatric inguinal hernia is surgical repair. Surgery is typically recommended to prevent complications such as incarceration (trapping of abdominal contents in the hernia) or strangulation (cutting off blood supply to the trapped abdominal contents), which can be life-threatening.

Surgery for inguinal hernia in children is usually performed under general anaesthesia and involves making a small incision in the groin area. The herniated tissue is then forced back into the abdomen, and the weakened area or opening in the inguinal canal is repaired. KZN Specialised Paediatric Surgical Service are one of the centres in South Africa that perform inguinal hernia repair in children laparoscopically. The procedure is usually performed as an outpatient surgery, meaning your child can go home the same day.

After surgery, your child may experience some discomfort, swelling, or bruising in the groin area. The paediatrician might recommend pain medication and offer guidance on how to care for the incision site. Your child should avoid doing strenuous activities and heavy lifting for a few weeks to allow for proper healing.

Frequent check-ups with the physician will be necessary to oversee the recovery progress and prevent the hernia from reappearing.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Dr Mangray, the founder of KZN Specialised Paediatric Surgical Service, and his associates, Dr Ngobese, Dr Govender and Dr Dube-Zvirikuzhe, have a well-established reputation for caring for children right until late adolescence.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQ

1Can inguinal hernia be prevented?

Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent inguinal hernias in children, but early detection and treatment can prevent complications and ensure a good outcome.

2How long does the surgery for an inguinal hernia take?

The surgery typically takes under an hour to complete, but the exact time may vary depending on the hernia's size and complexity.

3How long does it take for a child to recover from inguinal hernia surgery?

Most children can return to normal activities within a week after surgery, but it may take a few weeks for the incision site to heal completely.