Hernias in children are very common. These hernias occur in the belly button (umbilical) and in the groin (inguinal). The reported incidence of pediatric hernias is 1-5 percent of all children. Premature infants are at increased risk for inguinal hernia, with incidence rates of 2% in females and 7-30% in males. Sometimes an inguinal hernia can be associated with fluid around the testicle, which is called a hydrocele. The hernia is easily diagnosed by a bulge in the groin than can extend down into the scrotum.
Dr. Kravitz repaired many pediatric hernias on a recent surgical mission to the Dominican Republic.
Umbilical hernias are commonly found in infants and children. An umbilical hernia is a bulge of intra-abdominal organs through an opening in the abdominal wall at the base of the umbilicus (belly button). This occurs when abdominal muscles fail to come together forming an opening called an umbilical ring. The size of umbilical hernias varies from child to child. Many umbilical hernias close on their own by 3 to 4 years of age, and repair is generally done before the child goes to school.
Both inguinal and umbilical hernias are very easily treated with surgery. Unlike adults, in whom there is often a weakness of the abdominal wall, children have very strong muscles. The repair involves just closing the hole through which the hernia is protruding. No mesh is required, and parents report that their kids are usually back to normal with 24 to 48 hours.
CONTACT US TODAY TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR PEDIATRIC HERNIAS
Our staff is very experienced with the care of children, and our anesthesiologist (Dr. Wilpon) has not only been trained in pediatric anesthesiology, but has been practicing in this field for over 25 years. To learn more about our pediatric hernias, contact us today.
