Inguinal hernia1 in babies is a condition present mainly in the first year of life. The first sign of this complication in boys is swelling in the inguinal area caused by the protrusion of an intestinal segment. In girls, the bulge can appear in the area of the ovary and fallopian tube. Approximately one in every 20 babies may be born with an inguinal hernia, premature infants are at higher risk, affecting up to 30% of newborns. It is a complication more common in boys2. The incidence of inguinal hernia in boys may be higher due to the formation of the testicles while the baby is still in the mother’s womb. The testicles typically pass through the abdominal wall via the inguinal canal into the scrotal sac. Sometimes, the canal that should close remains open, allowing the testicles to move and settle in the abdominal wall. However, there are cases where the hernia develops in the scrotal region itself.
How Is It Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of inguinal hernia in babies is clinical. First, the mother or caregiver notices a small bulge in the child’s groin, similar to an olive under the skin. The lump appears and disappears frequently and usually does not cause pain. During bath time or when the baby strains to have a bowel movement are moments when the hernia can be seen more easily. In babies under one year, it is common for the inguinal hernia to be discovered at the time of diaper changes. With the child lying down and moving, the lump appears more often, making it visible.
What Is the Treatment for Inguinal Hernia in Babies?
The only treatment for an inguinal hernia is strictly surgical. The hernia surgery is low risk and can be performed immediately, with no need for preoperative preparation and quick recovery after surgery. Children Who Are Not Operated On Are at Risk? (h3) When inguinal hernia surgery is not performed, strangulation of the herniated intestine can occur, increasing the risk of complications. Although this is a condition with a simple surgical solution, lack of care and surgical removal can make it dangerous.
IMPORTANT: There is no clinical treatment for hernia. The use of compression dressings or belts is not recommended. The only medically approved treatment for all cases of hernias is surgical removal.
When Can My Child Have Hernia Surgery?
The only contraindications for surgery are in patients with anemia, cough, runny nose, fever, or dehydration. The patient can undergo surgery at various ages, from one month old (newborn) to adolescence. It is important that the hospital has a surgical center with proper conditions for the procedure.
How Is the Surgery Performed?
Inhalation general anesthesia is recommended, with local infiltration of marcaine. This substance will provide better recovery after surgery and reduce the need for analgesics. The surgery is minimally invasive, resulting in a quick recovery and a rapid return to daily activities. Usually, the surgery is done through a small transverse incision about 1.5 to 2 cm long, in the inguinal fold, making the scar discreet and almost unnoticeable.
What Is Hernia Strangulation?
This is a sign of an advanced stage of the disease. In this case, the patient must be hospitalized urgently and operated on as soon as possible. Boys face serious risks of impaired blood supply to the testicles and herniated intestinal loop. In girls, ovarian torsion may occur, which can lead to removal and infertility3.
What Is Hydrocele?
This is a complication that can be confused with inguinal hernia. Hydrocele4 causes the scrotal sac to become swollen due to fluid accumulation. However, this symptom usually resolves over time, but in some cases, surgical removal of the fluid is required. If the child presents with redness in the scrotal sac, swelling, and mild tenderness, see a doctor immediately, as these symptoms can indicate more severe problems, such as testicular torsion. If you suspect your child may have an inguinal hernia, consult a doctor right away. The surgery is simple and prevents future complications, such as blockage of blood flow to the area and permanent damage. While it is a condition with few symptoms and easy removal, hernias require care and can harm the child in the future. Also See: Umbilical Hernia – Why Does It Occur? Photo: serenestarts
