General surgery

A hernia is the protrusion of an abdominal organ or part of an organ into the subcutaneous tissues though a defect or a small tear in the abdominal wall. Hernias can develop in various locations. The most common hernias are inguinal, umbilical, incisional and femoral.

An inguinal hernia is a condition where part of the abdominal organs shifts from its normal anatomical position and pushes through an opening in the inguinal canal, protruding outside the abdominal cavity.

Inguinal hernias are the most common type of hernia. They can be either congenital or acquired. Symptoms include swelling, discomfort and pain in the groin.

Regardless of its origin, an inguinal hernia must be removed, as other methods such as hernia belts or specific exercises do not cure the hernia but only slow its progression temporarily. One of the most dangerous complications is hernia incarceration, where part of the intestine becomes trapped within the hernia opening. This can lead to impaired blood supply and compromise the viability of the intestine.

Surgery

During surgery, the surgeon removes the hernia sac through a skin incision. A mesh implant is then inserted to reinforce the affected tissue and reduce the risk of recurrence. Inguinal hernia repair can be performed under local or general anaesthesia.

At Confido, this is done using either an open method or minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques. The most suitable method is chosen based on the patient’s gender, age, hernia size and other factors.

Recovery

You may need to stay in hospital for observation for 24 hours after the surgery. You can go on short walks the day after the surgery. Avoid lifting heavy objects (over 15 kg) for the first 14 days. Pain at the surgical site may be present in the first few weeks after surgery.

More information on wound care and at-home treatment is available HERE.

Inguinal hernia in children

Inguinal hernias are a relatively common condition in children, similar in nature to those in adults. The condition often requires surgical intervention to avoid complications.

Main causes

In most cases, inguinal hernias in children are congenital, developing during foetal growth when the abdominal wall muscles fail to close completely. The risk is higher in:

• Premature infants, as their muscle tissue is not fully developed
• Boys compared to girls, as the descent of the testicles through the inguinal canal can facilitate hernia development
• Children with a family history of hernias

Typical symptoms

• A protruding bulge in the groin, which may become more pronounced when the child coughs, cries, or engages in physical activity.
• In some cases, pain or discomfort in the affected area.
• If the hernia becomes incarcerated (i.e. a portion of the intestine is trapped), symptoms may include:
  • Severe pain
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Localised redness and swelling

 Surgery

Surgery to remove inguinal hernias in children is performed under general anaesthesia. The surgeon:

• Makes a small incision in the groin
• Places the protruding tissues back into the abdominal cavity
• Closes the hernia opening with stitches or reinforcing material
  The surgery is relatively quick, usually lasting 30 to 60 minutes.

Recovery

• Most children can go home on the day of the surgery.
• Full recovery takes about one to two weeks.
• Physical exertion and heavy lifting should be avoided until full recovery.
• Rarely, complications such as wound infection or hernia recurrence may occur, but these can generally be treated effectively.

Inguinal hernia surgery is a safe and effective procedure that ensures the child’s well-being and prevents serious complications.

More information on wound care and at-home treatment is available HERE.