Pediatric Hernia

A hernia occurs when part of an organ pushes through an opening in the muscle or tissue that holds it in place. In children, hernias are quite common, especially in newborns and infants, and can develop in different areas of the body. Most pediatric hernias are inguinal (in the groin) or umbilical (near the belly button). While hernias in children can be concerning, they are typically manageable with expert care, and that’s where Emirates Specialty Hospital comes in.

A pediatric hernia is a condition where a child’s intestine or other tissue bulges through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. The two most common types in children are inguinal and umbilical hernias.

• Inguinal Hernia: This type of hernia occurs in the groin area. In boys, it’s often associated with the descent of the testicles before birth. If the inguinal canal doesn’t close properly after birth, it can lead to a hernia. This condition usually manifests as a noticeable bulge in the groin or scrotum and may become more obvious when the child is crying or straining.
• Umbilical Hernia: This type of hernia is located near the belly button. Umbilical hernias occur when part of the intestine bulges through the abdominal wall at the site of the umbilical cord. They are typically more common in premature babies and low birth weight infants.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Pediatric Hernia

In most cases, the first sign of a pediatric hernia is a visible bulge in the groin or abdomen. Parents may notice that the bulge becomes more prominent when the child is crying, coughing, or straining during bowel movements. The bulge may disappear when the child is relaxed or lying down.

If left untreated, a hernia can lead to more serious complications, such as incarceration or strangulation of the herniated tissue, which can cut off blood flow and lead to tissue damage. That’s why timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial.

At Emirates Specialty Hospital, our pediatric specialists are trained to provide accurate diagnoses of hernias in children through a combination of physical exams and imaging tests, such as ultrasounds. This ensures that your child receives the best possible care and attention.

Treatment Options of Pediatric Hernia

The treatment of pediatric hernias usually involves surgery to repair the weakness in the abdominal wall and prevent the hernia from recurring. Our expert pediatric surgeons at Emirates Specialty Hospital specialize in performing minimally invasive hernia repairs, ensuring that your child experiences a faster recovery and minimal discomfort.

In the case of an umbilical hernia, surgery is often recommended if the hernia hasn’t closed on its own by the age of 3-4 years. Inguinal hernias, on the other hand, typically require more urgent surgical intervention due to the risk of complications.