A BULGE or swelling in the groin area of a child could be a tell-tale sign of inguinal hernia.
This condition occurs when tissues push through an opening or a weak spot in the abdominal wall.
The bulge or swelling typically becomes more noticeable when the child cries, coughs or strains.
While the condition can occur at any age, roughly one-third of cases appear in the first six months of life.
Dr Cheah Hui Shan, a consultant paediatric surgeon at Sunway Medical Centre (SMC) in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, said inguinal hernia is more common in boys.
Premature birth and low birth weight, she noted, are two main risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Although generally not painful, leaving inguinal hernia untreated may lead to complications, said Dr Cheah, adding these may include strangulation (restricted blood flow) which could damage the intestines.
In boys, it could also cause testicular damage due to local pressure and girls may experience damage to their ovary.
Dr Cheah said inguinal hernia is typically diagnosed through history and physical examination.
In some cases, imaging such as ultrasonography may be used to confirm the diagnosis, especially when the condition is not demonstrable during physical examination.
Dr Cheah reassured parents that while inguinal hernia is common, it is treatable with surgery.
“It is generally a minor procedure and usually takes only one day.
“However, for infants below six months or children with medical issues, an overnight hospital stay may be needed,” she said.
The operation involves making a small incision near the groin to identify the hernia sac and dissolvable stitches are used to close the wound.
Most children recover from the surgery relatively quickly, said Dr Cheah.
She also advised parents to ensure their child fasts prior to the surgery.
“The child will usually be able to eat and drink once they wake up.
“In most cases, they can go home on the same day of the surgery and return to their normal routines within a few days,” said Dr Cheah, who added that parents should bring their child’s favourite toys to keep them calm and occupied.
“One parent is permitted in the operating room to help keep the child calm prior to surgery,” she added.
Like any medical procedure, bleeding and infection are potential complications, though these are uncommon, and the risk of recurrence and injury is low too, according to Dr Cheah.
To ensure proper recovery, she emphasised the importance of follow-ups and post-operative care.
In the weeks after the surgery, follow-ups should be scheduled to monitor the wound and for parents to highlight any concerns that may arise.
In the days after the operation, Dr Cheah said pain can be managed through the use of painkillers.
Monitoring for signs of wound infection such as redness, swelling or a fever above 38°C is similarly crucial to the child’s well-being.
The child may bathe the day after surgery, although the wound dressing should remain in place for about three to five days.
However, Dr Cheah recommended staying away from water-related activities for between four and six weeks until the wound has healed fully.
Employing some 3,800 healthcare professionals, SMC is currently equipped with 724 licensed beds.
It is set to increase the number of beds to 1,000 upon the completion of Block F.
