Patient's question:
A child from a relative's family was diagnosed with a hernia when they were only a few months old. At that time, the doctor said that some cases would gradually improve on their own within a week. However, it has been more than a week, and the hernia has not improved yet. So, we took the child to the hospital, and the doctor recommended surgery. I would like to ask if surgery is the best option for this type of pediatric hernia?Doctor's answer:
Hydrocele in children refers to the presence of a reducible swelling in the inguinal region or umbilicus. A reducible swelling refers to a softer lump that can be palpated on the surface of the child during activities, crying, or straining during bowel movements. However, when the child rests and lies flat, the lump disappears on its own, which is what is commonly referred to as hydrocele in children. In some regions, hydrocele in children is called "qi gu lu luo zi," meaning that the child has a hydrocele.