Our Summary

Groin hernias are very common and often require surgery. They happen when parts of the body that should be inside the abdomen poke through a weak spot in the groin. This can often be due to a mix of genetic factors, issues with connective tissue, and physical strain. Though some people without symptoms might choose not to have surgery straight away, the best way to fix a hernia is usually through an operation.

There are two main ways to do this operation: an open one or a minimally invasive one. The latter can be done using laparoscopy (a thin tube with a camera) or with the help of a robot. The most common method involves using a mesh to provide support and this has helped reduce the number of hernias that come back after surgery. But in some cases, like for children, teenagers, or in places without many resources, doctors might choose to fix the hernia just by stitching up the tissue.

Even though these methods can be effective, there are still some issues. Some people have long-lasting pain after the operation and occasionally the hernia comes back. Future research is looking to improve the ways we do these operations, investigate problems related to the mesh, develop new kinds of mesh, and understand more about the genes that might make someone more likely to get a hernia.

FAQs

  1. What is the most common treatment for groin hernias in adults?
  2. Why are tissue-based repairs preferred for children and teenagers with groin hernias?
  3. What are some of the potential complications of groin hernia surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about pediatric hernia repair is to make sure to follow post-operative care instructions closely, including restrictions on physical activity and proper wound care. It is important to attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns promptly. Additionally, it is important to discuss any potential risks or complications with the surgeon before the procedure.

Suitable For

Pediatric patients with inguinal hernias are typically recommended for pediatric hernia repair. Inguinal hernias are the most common type of hernia in children, with a higher prevalence in boys. Pediatric hernias can be present at birth (congenital) or develop later in childhood. Surgical repair is recommended for pediatric inguinal hernias to prevent complications such as incarceration or strangulation, which can lead to bowel obstruction and tissue damage. Children with symptomatic hernias, hernias that are enlarging, or hernias that are causing discomfort or pain are also candidates for pediatric hernia repair.

Timeline

  • Patient experiences symptoms such as pain, swelling, and a visible bulge in the groin area, prompting them to seek medical attention
  • Pediatric hernia repair is recommended by a healthcare provider after a physical examination and possibly imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis
  • The patient undergoes preoperative evaluations and preparation for surgery, including fasting and anesthesia assessment
  • The pediatric hernia repair procedure is performed, either through open or minimally invasive techniques, with the use of tissue-based repairs in children
  • Postoperatively, the patient is monitored for complications such as infection, bleeding, and recurrence
  • The patient is advised on postoperative care, including pain management, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments
  • Over time, the patient experiences improvement in symptoms, with a reduced risk of hernia recurrence with the use of tension-free mesh repair in adults
  • Long-term follow-up may be necessary to monitor for complications and ensure the success of the pediatric hernia repair.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What type of hernia does my child have (inguinal vs femoral)?
  2. What are the risks and benefits of surgery for pediatric hernia repair?
  3. What is the recommended age for surgery in pediatric patients with hernias?
  4. What type of surgical technique will be used for my child’s hernia repair (open vs laparoscopic)?
  5. What is the expected recovery time after surgery for pediatric hernia repair?
  6. What are the potential complications or risks associated with pediatric hernia repair surgery?
  7. Will my child need a mesh implant for hernia repair, and if so, what type of mesh will be used?
  8. How should we prepare for the surgery and what should we expect on the day of the procedure?
  9. Will my child need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions or restrictions after hernia repair surgery?
  10. What is the likelihood of the hernia recurring after surgery, and how will it be monitored in the future?

Reference

Authors: Rosenberg J, Baig S, Chen DC, Derikx J. Journal: Nat Rev Dis Primers. 2025 Jul 3;11(1):47. doi: 10.1038/s41572-025-00631-4. PMID: 40610521