Hernia

A hernia happens when a small opening in the muscle wall of the tummy does not close fully, letting tissue or a loop of bowel push through. In children this is most often seen in the groin (inguinal hernia) or at the navel (umbilical hernia).

• A soft swelling in the groin, scrotum or navel
• Bulge becomes more obvious when crying, coughing or straining
• Swelling may disappear when your child is calm or lying down
• Pain, redness or vomiting if the hernia gets stuck

It is a natural developmental opening that did not close before birth. It is not caused by anything a parent did, and it will not close on its own in the groin type.

Usually a simple clinical examination by the paediatric surgeon is enough. Occasionally an ultrasound is used to confirm.

• Groin hernias need surgical repair — there is no medicine for them
• Small umbilical hernias are often watched, as many close by themselves
• Urgent surgery if the hernia becomes stuck (obstructed)

Inguinal hernias are repaired soon after diagnosis to avoid the risk of the bowel getting trapped. Umbilical hernias are usually repaired only if they persist beyond a few years or become large.

The repair is a short day-care procedure under general anaesthesia. The opening is closed through a tiny incision or by laparoscopy. Most children go home the same day.

Children are usually back to normal eating within hours and back to school in a few days. Heavy play and sports are restricted for two to three weeks.