hernia surgery, laparoscopy, vascular surgery and breast surgeon in Bonita Springs and Naples Florida

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Hernia Surgery, Breat specialist, Dr. Petrites of Bonita Springs and Naples Florida
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Tel:  239.495.3990
Fax: 239.949.2888
Pediatric Inguinal Hernia

Inguinal (or groin) Hernia is a common finding in infants and children and represents the condition most frequently requiring surgical repair in the pediatric age group. A hernia is basically a hole or defect in the groin muscle layers that can allow intraabdominal organs to protrude through. The incidence of inguinal hernia varies with gestational age ranging from 9 to 11% in premature infants to 3 to 5% in full-term babies. Inguinal hernias are more common in males, tend to run in families, and are more common on the right side. 

The hernia will be noticed by the child or parent as a buldge in the groin with or without associated pain. Often they are detected by pediatricians or during routine sports physical examinations. Unfortunately, some hernias go undiagnosed until complications arise. The major risks in hernias requiring emergency surgery are: incarceration, where the intestine becomes obstructed because it is stuck in the hernia, and strangulation where the bowel becomes gangrenous and this portion of the intestine needs to be removed. The child can become very ill with vomiting and severe pain. Emergency surgery in these cases has a postoperative complication rate of 20% compared to 1% in elective surgery, therefore, elective surgery is recommended.

All infants and older children without underlying medical illnesses can and should undergo hernia repair in an outpatient setting. Outpatient hernia repair in children is safe, effective, and well tolerated. If you suspect your child has a hernia or your child’s physician has diagnosed one, a surgeon who performs pediatric hernia repair should see the child electively.

This medical update is provided to you by Dr. Mark E. Petrites. His office is located in the Bonita Community Health Center.   Back to Nurse's Corner

Bonita Community Health Center   3501 Health Center Blvd, Suite 2110   Bonita Springs, FL  34135