Inguinal Hernia

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During development in the womb, the testicle descends from around the level of the kidney into the scrotum, reaching it through a canal in the groin (inguinal canal). It brings with it some of the lining of the abdomen which, in the majority of cases, then closes. It may, however, remain open and this would lead to the development of a hydrocoele or an inguinal hernia. Inguinal hernia is the most common type of groin hernia in children and in young adults.

If a child has a hernia, surgery is usually recommended. This involves tying off the connection, which is done through a small cut in the groin, while the patient is asleep.

The specific details of the operation will be discussed prior to surgery, which is usually undertaken as a day case. Children usually recover very quickly from this operation but I do suggest they avoid contact sports and organised sport for 10 days, or at least until they can roll across the ground without pain.

Click here for information on adult hernias.