Mar 18, 2012

Umbilical hernia in children


   Introduction: Umbilical hernias in children result from a weakness in the abdominal wall that is present at birth. 


Clinical Presentation: Generally, Parents notice a bulge at the umbilicus,which increases in size as the child cries, strains, coughs.It reduces spontaneously when the child goes to sleep or clam down.

Investigations: Its clinical diagnosis & does not require any further test if there are no other signs.


Treatment: 1. Reassurance- If the child is less than 2 years, small defect & no h/o irreducibility then just reassurance is needed (90% of umbilical hernia resolute spontaneously)
2. Indications for surgical repair-1. Age is more than 2 years 2. The defect is more than 1.5 cm.3.If there is h/o irreducibility or obstruction.