Groin Hernia—Child
(Hernia, Groin—Child; Hernia, Inguinal—Child; Inguinal Hernia—Child)
Definition
A groin hernia happens when soft tissue pushes through a weak spot in the wall of the belly. Sometimes the tissue also passes down a canal that links the scrotum to the abdominal area. It is called the inguinal canal.
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Risk Factors TOP
Groin hernias are more common in boys. They are also more common in babies that are born very early.
Symptoms TOP
The most common symptom is a bulge in the groin. It may be easier to see this bulge when a child is crying. The child may also show signs of pain.
Hernias can sometimes get caught in the abdominal wall. This is called a strangulated hernia. Symptoms may be:
- Vomiting
- Swollen belly
A strangulated hernia needs emergency care.
Diagnosis TOP
The doctor will ask about your child’s symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. This is often enough to make the diagnosis.
Images may be taken if the diagnosis is not certain. This can be done with an ultrasound.
Treatment TOP
Groin hernias are repaired with surgery. Babies born very early may not have surgery until later.
RESOURCES:
Healthy Children—American Academy of Pediatrics
https://healthychildren.org
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
http://www.niddk.nih.gov
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
About Kids Health—The Hospital for Sick Children
http://www.aboutkidshealth.ca
Health Canada
https://www.canada.ca
REFERENCES:
Groin hernia in children. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/groin-hernia-in-children. Accessed December 16, 2020.
Inguinal hernia. Cincinnati Children’s website. Available at:
...(Click grey area to select URL)
Accessed December 16, 2020.
Wang K. Assessment and Management of Inguinal Hernia in Infants. Pediatrics. 2012 Oct;130(4):768-773.
Last reviewed September 2020 by EBSCO Medical Review Board
Chelsea Skucek, MSN, BS, RNC-NIC
Last Updated: 5/28/2021