Inguinal Hernias

Inguinal hernia is a condition that can occur both in boys and girls. It is relatively common in boys, but can cause serious problems if left untreated. A simple surgical procedure can seal up the hernia to prevent complications.

What is an Inguinal Hernia?

An inguinal hernia occurs when some material, such as fatty tissue or part of the bowel, bulges out from the abdomen in a region near the groin or the scrotum. If this material becomes stuck or twisted, then it is known as a strangulated hernia. A strangulated hernia is an emergency. It can be very painful, and may even be life threatening if it is not treated as soon as possible.

Signs of Inguinal Hernia

An inguinal hernia will look like a small lump or swelling in the groin. It can also appear as if the scrotum is swollen or larger than normal. Sometimes the hernia can appear as a bulge on either side of the pubic bone. Some children may feel pain in this area, which might only occur when they are moving around or coughing. The hernia might disappear when your child lies down as the material often slips back in through the gap in this position.

If the hernia becomes strangulated, then you might also notice:

• that the bulge no longer disappears anymore, even when your child lies down
• sudden pain in the groin area
• the bulge turning red or purple
• fever
• nausea or vomiting
• constipation or difficulty with bowel movements or passing gas

A strangulated hernia can be very serious so you should seek medical help right away if you notice these symptoms.

Causes of Inguinal Hernias

Inguinal hernia is one of the most common types of hernia. When the testicles are developing in the womb, they move down into the scrotum through a small opening in the groin. Although this opening usually seals itself, in some cases, the hole does not close completely and the small sac that accompanies the testicles remains open.

Treatments for Inguinal Hernia

Surgery is usually recommended for inguinal hernia because of the risk of strangulation. If the hernia has already become strangulated, then emergency surgery is needed as this can be a life-threatening complication.

Inguinal hernia repair is performed under a general anaesthetic. It can be performed as open or laparoscopic (keyhole). With the open approach, a small incision is made in the groin. The material in the hernia will be pushed back into the correct position. The open sac will then be stitched up so that the hernia will not return. With the laparoscopic approach a small camera is inserted into the abdomen at the level of the umbilicus (belly button) and two small instruments are inserted in the abdomen. Once again, the material in the hernia will be pushed back into the correct position and the sac closed from inside the abdomen.

If you have noticed signs of an inguinal hernia, then you should make an appointment quickly to get it checked by a specialist. A paediatric urologist can confirm the diagnosis and organise the procedure.