What is a hernia ?
Hernia meaning
Hernias are prevalent afflictions among adults, but they can also affect young children. To address these issues, a pediatric surgeon will typically perform a surgical intervention. This procedure will allow the organs that have come out to be put back into their proper place, in the abdominal cavity. Here is all you need to know about inguinal and umbilical hernia procedures: indications, diagnosis, course of the procedure and post-operative care.
Symptoms
Hernia symptoms in children and infants are :
- A lump or swelling in the groin or near the navel.
- Pain or tenderness in the groin or abdomen.
- Unexplained crying or fussiness.
- A noticeable lump that expands at straining, cry or cough.
Inguinal and umbilical hernia, what are they ?
When an organ, or a part of an organ, bulges through a natural opening in its cavity, this is known as a hernia.
Types of hernia
There are two types , the umbilical and the inguinal hernia :
Umbilical hernia
It is characterized by a lump, or mass at the navel. This type causes when part of the abdomen protrudes through the umbilicus.
Inguinal hernia
This type causes when the viscera pass through the wall of the abdomen.
Congenital umbilical hernia
In babies, it is very common to see the formation of a small umbilical hernia called congenital umbilical hernia. This type causes when the opening of the umbilical cord has not yet closed completely. In most cases, this small hernia will disappear on its own as the child grows, usually before the age of five.
Other types
Femoral hernia
Is another type of groin hernias.
This type are more common in adults than in children.
Femoral hernias in children are frequently linked to either connective tissue disorders or conditions that cause increased pressure in the abdomen. Notably, almost 70% of these cases occur in infants less than one year old.
Hiatal hernia
A hiatal hernia happens when the stomach protrudes into the diaphragm, the muscular wall that separates the chest from the stomach. While the exact cause of this condition is uncertain, it is often present from birth in children. Infants may also experience gastroesophageal reflux along with a hiatal hernia.
What is the cost of inguinal and umbilical hernia procedures?
If you would like to organize hernia surgery for your child, you can choose Tunisia Medical Travel. We collaborate with the best surgeons in the country in the high standard infrastructures. Do not hesitate to contact us for a detailed estimate.
Inguinal and umbilical hernia: what are the possible side effects ?
he young patient having hernia disease may experience significant pain. He is also subject to various complications. The child may have digestive problems, constipation, and the hernia could be not very aesthetic. It’s crucial to consider that delaying treatment for a hernia can have serious consequences. As time goes on, the contents that have protruded out of place will become increasingly challenging to reposition. In the worst-case scenario, they may become trapped, leading to tissue necrosis. This underscores the urgency of seeking help from a specialist promptly, regardless of the size or lack of discomfort associated with the hernia.
Inguinal and umbilical hernia procedure : what you should know before the procedure
As soon as the hernia is formed, the pediatrician will insure the follow up and will check the evolution of the situation over the years: It may close by itself, but if the pediatrician notices that it has a large volume or that it does not close spontaneously, then he will recommend a procedure to remedy the problem and will call a pediatric surgeon.
Typically, an abdominal ultrasound is not required, as a physical exam is typically enough for the pediatric surgeon to confirm the diagnosis and assess the patient’s condition. However, there may be instances where the surgeon may suggest an ultrasound for a more comprehensive understanding of the situation. In the initial consultation with the child’s parents, the surgeon will thoroughly outline the procedure, postoperative implications, and potential risks of the operation.
Hernia treatment on children
To remedy a hernia, it is necessary to perform a surgical procedure of parietal repair, called hernia repair. The child diagnosed with a hernia disease will be operated by a pediatric surgeon. The surgeon will close the hole through which the elements have come out.
The surgeon will have the choice between two main techniques to remedy the problem:
- Either the surgeon proceeds by laparotomy, and a small incision is therefore made in the groin.
- Or he proceeds by colonoscopy (a non-absorbable parietal prosthesis will be used).
Both procedures yield identical outcomes, and the after-care routine stays consistent. However, in cases of bilateral hernia or recurrence, the surgeon will opt for colonoscopy.
This simple procedure is conducted with the use of general anesthesia and takes only a short amount of time. Most patients are able to leave the hospital on the same day as the surgery, although some may need to stay overnight for observation.
Contact and quote request
If you want to organize umbilical or inguinal hernia procedure for your child, trust the professionals of Tunisia Medical Travel. We will assist you step by step in the preparation of your file and in the organization of your stay. Our team is at your disposal to assist you and guide you through all the procedures. Do not hesitate to contact us for more information and to ask for a free and non-binding quote.