Are there any sequelae of hernia in children?

If pediatric hernia is not treated for a long time, it may cause serious complications such as intestinal obstruction and tissue necrosis, and medical treatment is required as soon as possible according to the condition.

Hernia refers to the protrusion of organs or tissues in the abdominal cavity through a weak part. For example, inguinal hernia in children means that the contents of the abdominal cavity protrude through the inguinal canal. It is often caused by congenital abdominal wall defects and is common in premature babies and infants. Although some hernias can be retracted on their own, repeated incarceration may affect health.

If the hernia is stuck (i.e. incarcerated hernia), blood circulation may be blocked, causing local intestinal necrosis or even infection, which may be life-threatening in severe cases. Long-term inguinal hernia may also hinder development, especially for male babies, which may affect the reproductive organs. For example, it may affect testicular development or increase the risk of testicular atrophy. For female babies, the contents of the hernia may involve the ovaries, which also requires extra care.

Parents need to pay attention to whether their children have abnormal bulges in the groin area, especially whether the bulges are more obvious when crying or coughing. If urinary or digestive abnormalities are found, or the bulge cannot be pushed back or even the child has symptoms such as pain and vomiting, they should seek medical attention in time. Surgery is currently the main treatment method. Early treatment usually has good results and can effectively avoid sequelae.