An inguinal hernia is an abnormal protrusion that can be seen and felt in the groin area (the area between the abdomen and thigh).
During the development of the fetus in the womb, between 12 and 14 weeks, the testicles or ovaries form in the abdomen near the kidneys. As the baby continues to develop, they gradually move towards the lower abdomen. As it moves down, part of the peritoneum (the membrane lining the inside of the abdomen) adheres to the testis and forms a sac with it, and is pulled into the scrotum (scrotum). A similar process occurs in girls when the round ligament of the uterus descends into the groin. This sac is known as the processus vaginalis.
This sac closes near birth in both boys and girls. Thus, there is no connection between the abdominal cavity and the groin. This sac can become a hernia when the closure of the sac is delayed or not closed. Inguinal hernia occurs when intra-abdominal organs (such as intestines, ovaries) enter this sac.
The bulge in the groin can be seen during crying or contraction and may shrink or disappear when the baby relaxes. Localized pain may be observed in the hernia area. 90% of newborns with inguinal hernia are male. It is mostly on the right.
If the swelling does not go away even when your child relaxes, it may mean that the organs in the abdomen are trapped in the hernia. This is called an "incarcerated hernia" and requires immediate medical attention. If the blood supply of the hernia content is impaired, it is called "strangulated hernia". You may experience severe pain, vomiting, loss of appetite, redness or bruising around the swelling, and sometimes fever and bloody stools. This type of hernia requires EMERGENCY surgery.
In hernia repair surgery, a small incision is typically made near the bulge and the hernia contents are pushed back into the abdomen. The hernia sac is tied. If a laparoscopic (closed) approach is used: small incisions are made on the navel that allow the insertion of cameras and instruments to view and repair the hernia.
Inguinal hernia does not have a chance to go away on its own. Therefore, the only form of treatment is surgery. Untreated hernias tend to grow continuously. Also, there is always a risk of organ damage or loss, as there is a risk of suffocation of the intestine that goes into the hernia. Therefore, surgery should be performed as soon as possible after the diagnosis of hernia.