Do children need surgery for hernia?

Pediatric hernias usually require surgical treatment, which is currently the only way to cure hernias. Due to the risk of incarceration, it is recommended to undergo surgical intervention as soon as possible after a doctor's evaluation to effectively prevent complications. Postoperative care and recovery are also very important and must be strictly followed.

1 Causes and risks of hernia in children

Hernias in children are often related to incomplete closure of the abdominal wall or abnormal development. During fetal development, a small passage may form in the groin of some male babies. If the passage is not closed after birth, tissues or organs in the abdominal cavity, such as the intestine, may enter the groin area. This condition is called an indirect inguinal hernia. Stress factors such as premature birth, coughing, constipation, or frequent crying can also increase the risk of hernia. Hernias can usually be seen as lumps in the groin or scrotum area. The lumps may increase due to the baby's activities and may cause incarceration, where the intestines are stuck and blood circulation is blocked. This is a situation that urgently requires surgery.

2Does hernia in children require surgical treatment?

For pediatric hernia, in most cases, surgical treatment is required for a complete cure. Non-surgical treatments such as hernia belts cannot effectively solve the problem, and long-term use may bring side effects. Surgical methods are divided into laparoscopic hernia repair and traditional open repair: 1. Laparoscopic surgery: small incision, fast recovery, suitable for children with bilateral hernia; 2. Open surgery: commonly used for complex hernias; 3. Emergency surgery for incarcerated hernia: performed immediately when necessary to avoid serious complications such as intestinal necrosis. The overall risk of surgery is low, but it needs to be performed by experienced doctors in a regular hospital.

3. Postoperative care and other precautions

Postoperative care is essential for recovery. After surgery, your baby should generally maintain a light diet and avoid strenuous activities. The wound should also be kept clean to prevent infection. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics and other medications to assist recovery as needed. Generally, the baby's mobility will return to normal 1-2 weeks after surgery, but parents still need to pay attention to any abnormalities in the groin area. If there is a recurrence or other complications, follow-up should be carried out in a timely manner.

Surgery is currently the most effective way to treat pediatric hernias, especially considering the possible risk of incarceration, and should be treated as soon as possible. If your baby's hernia is diagnosed, it is recommended to consult a specialist as soon as possible for personalized evaluation and treatment to ensure your baby's healthy growth.