Inguinal hernia in children

[Merna]

A hernia is a protrusion of a piece of the intestine through an abnormal opening in the abdominal wall. An inguinal hernia occurs in the groin (the inguinal area).

A piece of intestine protrudes through a hole in the groin.
Typically, children develop a painless bulge in the groin or scrotum.
The diagnosis is based on an examination and imaging tests.
Usually, the hernia is repaired surgically.

(For adults, see Inguinal Hernia.)
A hernia in the groin is called an inguinal hernia (see Figure: What Is an Inguinal Hernia?). Inguinal hernias are more common among boys, particularly those who are premature. The right side is affected most commonly, and about 10% of inguinal hernias occur on both sides of the groin. An inguinal hernia extends into the groin and can extend into the scrotum. With an inguinal hernia, the opening in the abdominal wall can be present from birth or develop later in life.