A Prospective Study on Prevalence and Management of Inguinal Hernia in Infants and Children

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Inguino-scrotal swellings are frequently observed in patients of pediatric age group. Inguinal hernia and Hydrocele are the most common causes of such swellings in children. For their effective management, it is essential to study various factors like age, sex etc. associated with inguinal hernia in pediatric age group. Objectives: To study the epidemiology, management and outcome of inguinal hernia in children. Methods: A prospective study was conducted on pediatric patients with inguinal hernia for a period of 18 months. Patients from newborn to 14 years of age were selected for this study on the basis of inclusion and exclusion criteria.  Result: Inguinal hernia can occur at any age, but the majority of patients are seen between 1 to 5 years of age. It is more commonly seen in male children and incidence is slightly higher on right side. Almost all of the inguinal hernia in pediatric age group is of indirect type, which develops due to congenitally patent processus vaginalis. Conclusion: Early surgical intervention in form of Inguinal herniotomy is the most appropriate management of inguinal hernia in children.