Routine bilateral groin exploration in patients with unilateral inguinal hernia

381 of 388 clinically unilateral inguinal herniae in children underwent bilateral groin exploration. 64% of the 203 right and 96% of the 178 left inguinal herniae had a contralateral hernia. The complications encountered were death in 1 [associated multiple congenital abnormalities] wound infection in 5 [1.3%], and recurrence and injury to the vas in 1 case each. Contralateral exploration was declared negative only after a joint decision with a consultant