Understanding Your Child's Inguinal (Groin) Hernia Repair

A groin hernia is when a small sac of intestine or fat pokes through a weak area of muscle into the lower abdomen. The weak area of muscle is formed that way before birth. The sac is formed by tissue that lines the abdomen. This kind of hernia usually happens on one side of the groin. It is felt as a bulge under the skin.

Groin hernias are common in children. They happen most often in boys. They do not go away on their own. If left untreated, the hernia can cause a serious problem. Groin hernias in children can be repaired with surgery in about 1 hour. Most children go home the same day and get better quickly.

Questions you may have

It’s normal to have concerns about your child’s surgery. Here are answers to some common questions:

• Is surgery safe? Yes. Complications from hernia surgery are rare. In fact, most children get back to their normal life in a short time.

• Will my child be in pain during surgery? No. Your child will be given medicines that make him or her sleep during surgery. Some mild discomfort after the surgery is normal.

• Is surgery always needed? Yes. If a groin hernia is not treated, part of the intestine can become trapped. This means the blood to that part of the intestine is cut off. It is a medical emergency and needs treatment right away. Having repair surgery will prevent this problem from happening.

Preparing your child for surgery

Follow your healthcare provider's advice to help get your child ready for surgery. You may be asked to:

• Tell the healthcare provider about any medicines your child takes. These include children’s pain relievers, vitamins, and other supplements.

• Come with your child to tests. These may include urine and blood tests.

• Not let your child eat or drink after midnight the night before surgery.

The day of surgery

You’ll meet with the anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist. He or she will talk with you about the anesthesia used to prevent pain during surgery. Your child will be given an IV to provide fluids and medicines. This may occur in the operating room while your child is receiving anesthesia through a mask.

During the surgery

The surgery may be done with laparoscopic surgery. This uses 2 or 3 tiny incisions and a small tool called a laparoscope. Or it may be done with open surgery. This is done through one larger incision. The surgeon will talk with you about which method is best for your child.

Your child’s recovery

Your child can likely go home the same day as the surgery. Once at home, give your child pain relievers as instructed. Care for the incision area and bandage as advised. A small amount of swelling and bruising is normal and will go away in a short time. Do not let your child bathe until the healthcare provider says it’s OK, usually 2 days after surgery. Have your child rest as needed. Most children can go back to normal activity in a couple of days. To help speed recovery, encourage your child to move around. If you have questions or concerns, talk with the healthcare provider during follow-up visits.