Our Summary

This study explores a method of treating a type of hernia in children known as Subcutaneous Endoscopically Assisted Ligation (SEAL). This method is minimally invasive and very effective, but not all patients are suitable for it due to certain technical limitations. The researchers tried to find out if certain factors about the patient could predict whether or not they’d be suitable for the SEAL method.

They looked back at all patients that had this type of hernia repaired between June 2012 and December 2014. They focused on those younger than two years old and anyone older than two who also had another type of hernia, called an umbilical hernia. They then compared patients who had the SEAL method with those who had a different type of operation.

They found that 62% of hernias could be repaired with the SEAL method, and the rate of the hernia coming back after the SEAL method was similar to that of the other type of operation. They also found that they couldn’t predict who would be suitable for the SEAL method based on the factors they looked at before the operation.

The researchers concluded that for doctors who are experienced in minimally invasive techniques, the SEAL method is a safe and successful option for treating this type of hernia in children.

FAQs

  1. What is Subcutaneous Endoscopically Assisted Ligation (SEAL) method for pediatric hernia repair?
  2. What were the findings of the study on the effectiveness of the SEAL method for pediatric hernia repair?
  3. Can the suitability of a patient for the SEAL method be predicted based on certain preoperative factors?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about pediatric hernia repair using the SEAL method is that while not all patients may be suitable for this minimally invasive technique, for those who are, it can be a safe and effective option. It is important to consult with a skilled surgeon who is experienced in minimally invasive techniques to determine the best approach for your child’s hernia repair.

Suitable For

Typically, pediatric patients who are younger than two years old or who also have an umbilical hernia are recommended for pediatric hernia repair, specifically the Subcutaneous Endoscopically Assisted Ligation (SEAL) method. However, not all patients may be suitable for this method due to certain technical limitations. It is important for doctors to assess each patient individually to determine the most appropriate treatment option for their hernia.

Timeline

Before pediatric hernia repair:

  • Patient may experience symptoms such as swelling or bulging in the groin area
  • Consultation with a pediatric surgeon to discuss treatment options
  • Pre-operative testing to assess the hernia and overall health of the patient
  • Surgery scheduled and preparation for the procedure

After pediatric hernia repair:

  • Patient undergoes the minimally invasive SEAL method or another type of hernia repair operation
  • Recovery period with pain management and monitoring for any complications
  • Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to ensure proper healing and assess for recurrence of the hernia
  • Patient gradually resumes normal activities and experiences relief from hernia symptoms

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about pediatric hernia repair may include:

  1. What are the different types of hernia repair surgeries available for children?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with pediatric hernia repair surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery period after pediatric hernia repair surgery?
  4. Will my child need to stay in the hospital overnight after the surgery?
  5. What are the factors that determine whether my child is a suitable candidate for the Subcutaneous Endoscopically Assisted Ligation (SEAL) method?
  6. How experienced are you in performing minimally invasive techniques such as the SEAL method for pediatric hernia repair?
  7. How successful is the SEAL method compared to other types of hernia repair surgeries in children?
  8. How can I best prepare my child for hernia repair surgery and the recovery process?
  9. Are there any specific post-operative care instructions or restrictions that my child needs to follow?
  10. What is the long-term outlook for my child after undergoing pediatric hernia repair surgery?

Reference

Authors: Muncie C, Cockrell H, Whitlock R, Morris M, Sawaya D. Journal: Am Surg. 2019 Nov 1;85(11):1262-1264. PMID: 31775968