Groin hernias and scroto-penile lesions in a defined Jordanian children

ABSTRACT

To find out the incidence of groin hernias and external genitalia abnormalities in children in the south of Jordan, for referral and for early treatment and to educate the population about the risk and complications of these abnormalities. Male children aged 6-12 years in the city of Tafila were examined at schools. A total of 1748 children underwent careful clinical examination of groin region, penis and scrotum. Out of 1748 examined children, abnormal findings were detected in 320 children [18.30%]. The abnormalities were as follows- indirect inguinal hernia in 235 children, undescended testes in 37, retractile testes in 22, hypospadias in 13, left varicocele in eight, hydrocele in four, ambiguous genitalia in one. Herniotomy was detected in 56 children with failed herniotomy in two. Orchidopexy was found in four children with failure in two. No child has had surgery for hypospadias or varicocele. Indirect inguinal hernia is common in children. Undescended testes are not uncommon in children, the majority of children are late for treatment. Increased incidence of failure rate of treated children is noted. Education of public and medical staff about these abnormalities is needed to improve the outcome: