Hernia in Children: Symptoms and Treatment

• Children of any age or sex can develop a hernia. However, for the most part, the condition tends to affect boys more than girls, as well as infants born prematurely.
• Childhood hernias are particularly dangerous because when the intestines or any other bodily organs are displaced, they may become lodged in the limited space around the groin. This limits blood flow and causes the organ to damage as a result.
• The most effective form of treatment for childhood hernias is surgery carried out by expert pediatric surgeons.

When we think of a “hernia”, many of us conjure up images of men with a lump protruding out from the area around their groin, pubic region or sexual organ. However, the truth is that this condition can affect adults of any gender. What’s even more surprising, is that hernias can occur in childhood, with both boys and girls at risk. Boys tend to be at a greater risk than girls, especially those who were born prematurely.

Childhood hernias refer to the displacement of intestines or any other organs within the abdominal region. When it is displaced, it puts pressure on the abdominal muscles or groin area, causing a lump to protrude outwards. The condition is particularly dangerous when the displaced intestines or another organ becomes lodged in the groin area. This is because the resulting lack of blood flow to that organ causes it to become damaged.

• Childhood hernias are identified by a protruding lump near the groin, pubic region, or sexual organs.
• The lump is visible when the child is on the toilet or crying.
• It may be possible to push the lump down manually or when the child is asleep.
• If the lump is located close to the groin, attempting to push it down will cause pain and crying.
• Vomiting in children with a hernia suggests the presence of intestinal obstruction.

Surgery is the most effective form of treatment. This is because the procedure only requires closing the area at the front of the abdomen where the organ became displaced. Infact, the surgery is not as scary as some may imagine as it doesn’t require opening up the abdomen. Nor does it put the affected organ in any form of danger. 

The surgery takes approximately 30-45 minutes. And, if the child responds positively, doctors may allow them to return home to recover that same day. However, exceptions would need to be made for children born prematurely. Children under the age of 3 months or infants with other congenital conditions would also need to be admitted for longer. This is owing to the fact that in most of such cases, doctors will need to observe patients for another 1-2 days. The extra time allows the medical team to monitor them for any complications that may have risen during surgery.

We understand that parents or guardians may feel particularly anxious about their child undergoing surgery. However, if the symptoms of a hernia are ignored, the intestines could become stuck. Not only is such an occurrence extremely dangerous, it also makes treatment complicated with potentially fatal consequences for the child.

Therefore, if parents suspect that their child may have a hernia, they must seek immediate attention from a surgeon. This will ensure they receive an accurate diagnosis and subsequent surgical treatment. Infact, they must take the patient to a renowned hospital with specialist pediatric surgeons. This is because this type of surgery requires high levels of expertise in the field.

At Samitivej Children's Hospital, we harness the power of cutting-edge medical technology to enhance the quality of our medical services and surgical procedures. One of our remarkable advancements is Pediatric Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS), also known as laparoscopic surgery, which minimizes trauma for children and infants during operative procedures. By utilizing medical equipment ranging from 2 to 5 millimeters in diameter, we significantly reduce the affected tissue area. This approach offers numerous advantages:

• Enhanced Safety: By employing smaller incisions, we minimize bodily trauma and reduce blood loss, ensuring a safer surgical experience for young patients.

• Reduced Scarring: Most incisions made during pediatric minimally invasive surgery require only a stitch or two for closure. These tiny incisions, measuring only 2-5 millimeters in length, result in minimal scarring.

• Accelerated Recovery: While traditional surgeries typically entail a lengthy recovery period of six to eight weeks, patients who undergo minimally invasive procedures usually experience a much speedier recovery, often within just two weeks.

• Shortened Hospital Stay: Many MIS procedures are associated with a quick 23-hour discharge or scheduled outpatient surgery, leading to a decreased length of hospitalization.

By embracing Pediatric Minimally Invasive Surgery, Samitivej Children's Hospital strives to provide the utmost care for our young patients, prioritizing their well-being, comfort, and rapid recovery.