Hernias in children are not uncommon and often stem from congenital developmental issues. A hernia occurs when an internal organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or tissue wall. In children, the most common types include inguinal hernia, umbilical hernia, and hydrocele — all typically requiring pediatric surgical intervention.
With expert diagnosis and minimally invasive surgery, hernias can be corrected effectively, ensuring your child’s comfort and long-term health. For families in Maharashtra, Dr. Sadashiv Bhole, a top-rated pediatric urologist and surgeon in Nagpur, offers specialized care for pediatric hernia management and post-surgical recovery.
Types of Hernias in Children
Congenital Inguinal Hernia
- The most common hernia type in children, especially in premature male infants
- Caused by failure of the processus vaginalis to close, allowing abdominal contents to protrude through the inguinal canal
- Often mistaken for a hydrocele in early stages
Symptoms:
- Visible or palpable bulge in the groin or scrotum, especially during crying or straining
- Bulge may disappear when the child is calm
- Irritability, vomiting, or abdominal pain if hernia becomes incarcerated (trapped)
Umbilical Hernia
- Occurs due to incomplete closure of the abdominal wall at the umbilicus
- Seen as a soft bulge at the belly button, especially during coughing or crying
- Most resolve spontaneously by age 3–5, but surgery may be required if persistent or enlarging
Symptoms:
- Bulge at the navel, usually painless
- May increase in size with coughing, laughing, or crying
- Rarely becomes incarcerated, but should be evaluated if painful
Hydrocele (Communicating Type)
- Fluid buildup in the scrotum due to patent processus vaginalis
- Often associated with or mistaken for inguinal hernia
- May fluctuate in size and is generally painless
Symptoms:
- Enlarged scrotum, more prominent in the evening
- May reduce in size overnight
- In communicating hydrocele, size changes are common — needs surgical intervention
Causes and Risk Factors
- Congenital defects (failure of tissue to close during fetal development)
- Premature birth (higher incidence of inguinal hernia)
- Family history of hernia
- Increased abdominal pressure due to chronic coughing, constipation, or straining during urination
- Weak abdominal muscles or connective tissue disorders
Complications if Left Untreated
- Incarcerated Hernia: Trapped intestinal loop causing severe pain, vomiting, and risk of tissue death
- Strangulated Hernia: Loss of blood supply to trapped tissue, requiring emergency surgery
- Recurrent infections or pressure on adjacent organs
- Discomfort affecting urination, toilet training, or even causing bedwetting in some cases
Early surgical correction by a pediatric surgeon or urologist prevents these complications.
Diagnosis of Pediatric Hernia
- Detailed physical examination
- Ultrasound of the inguinal or umbilical region
- In complex cases, imaging to differentiate between hernia, hydrocele, or lymphadenopathy
- If urinary symptoms are present, renal ultrasound or MCUG may be needed to rule out hydronephrosis, PUV, or vesicoureteral reflux
Hernia and Hydrocele Surgery in Children
Pediatric Inguinal Hernia Repair
- Performed via a small incision in the groin
- The herniated sac is closed and reinforced
- Done under general anesthesia
- Usually a day-care procedure with rapid recovery
Umbilical Hernia Repair
- Indicated if hernia persists beyond age 4–5
- Small incision at the umbilicus, hernia sac reduced and abdominal wall closed
- Cosmetic outcome is excellent
Hydrocele Surgery (Herniotomy)
- Communicating hydroceles are treated like inguinal hernias
- The processus vaginalis is closed to prevent recurrence
- Non-communicating hydroceles may resolve on their own, especially in infants
Post-Surgery Recovery
- Most children recover fully within 3–7 days
- Pain managed with oral medication
- No heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a few weeks
- Follow-up visit within 1–2 weeks to ensure proper healing
- No long-term restrictions once healed
When to Consult a Pediatric Surgeon or Urologist
- If your child has a persistent or painful groin or scrotal bulge
- Visible umbilical protrusion beyond 3 years of age
- Recurrent urinary infections or signs of urinary tract pressure
- Symptoms like vomiting, irritability, or abdominal distension
- If your child’s hernia was previously diagnosed but has become painful or firm
Early surgical consultation ensures safe correction and prevents emergencies.
Hernias in children are common, but they should not be ignored. Most pediatric hernias, if treated timely, result in complete recovery without recurrence. Surgical correction is simple, safe, and highly effective under the guidance of an experienced pediatric urology surgeon.
For inguinal hernia, umbilical hernia, or hydrocele, trust Dr. Sadashiv Bhole, one of the most respected names in pediatric urology in Nagpur, for precise diagnosis and world-class treatment.
