Patient's question:
My child is now less than one year old, but recently it was discovered that there is an indirect inguinal hernia on the left groin of my child, about the size of a quail egg. It is now very difficult to push it back by hand. The doctor suggested that I have surgery, but I am very worried that the anesthesia needle will affect my child. Moreover, since the child is so young, the surgery must be very risky. Therefore, I came specifically to consult about other treatment methods.My child has an indirect inguinal hernia, but the child is too young. How should such a condition be treated?
Doctor's answer:
For children suffering from inguinal hernia, surgical treatment is generally more challenging, as the abdominal muscles of infants and young children can gradually strengthen with body growth, and the hernia may resolve on its own. A cotton cord belt or bandage can be used to press the deep inguinal ring, or a hernia truss/pants/belt can be adopted to minimize the child's crying and alleviate discomfort. If a large bulge is detected that is difficult to fully recover, it should be taken to a hospital's surgical department for a thorough examination. Typically, a child's hernia is repaired after the age of two. However, it is important to be vigilant about strangulation.