Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair in Children

Approximately 1% to 3% of children are diagnosed with a communicating hydrocele or an inguinal hernia, with a higher incidence in premature and low birth weight infants. We understand the difference between a hydrocele and a hernia and when they need to be corrected, as well as when to treat inguinal hernias through laparoscopic surgery.

During normal pre-birth development, the testis descends though the groin into the scrotum, bringing with it part of the lining of the abdomen. This tube-like communication between the abdomen and the scrotum usually closes off by the time a child is born. If the communication does not close off, fluid is free to move back and forth from the abdomen into the scrotum. This is called a communicating inguinal hernia or hydrocele.

In this video, pediatric surgeon Jose Diaz-Miron, MD, explains the natural history and presentation for pediatric inguinal hernias. This discussion focuses around the laparoscopic approach for inguinal hernia repairs and the outcomes of the procedure. They also cover the most common questions we get from our patients and families in the pediatric surgery and urology clinics including origin, incident rates and possible recurrence.

[diasfelix]

Thank you Doctors! Puts my mind at ease and all other parents that may have to face the same issue. 🙏