Is Immediate Surgery Necessary for Hernia in Children?

The urgency of hernia surgery?

Hello doctor, my daughter has recently been diagnosed with a hernia.
We initially wanted to schedule surgery right away, but the physician mentioned that after the surgery, she cannot run, jump, or fall.
Since she is currently in school, I am concerned that she will want to play with her classmates during recess.
I would like to ask if there is an urgent need for surgery, or if we can wait until summer vacation to have the procedure done.
Thank you, doctor.

FG, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/06

Dr. Chen Ronghong reply Surgery

Hello FG, based on your description, your daughter’s hernia is likely located at the umbilical or inguinal region.
If the protruding mass can be easily pushed back into the abdominal cavity and does not become incarcerated, you can wait until summer vacation for surgery.
However, it is still recommended to closely monitor the hernia site.
If the mass cannot be reduced, or if there is pain or changes in skin color, you should seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Reply Date: 2022/04/06

More Info

When it comes to hernias in children, the decision regarding the timing of surgery can often be a source of concern for parents. In your case, it sounds like your daughter has been diagnosed with a hernia, and you are weighing the urgency of surgical intervention against her current lifestyle and activities, especially with school in session.

Hernias in children, particularly inguinal hernias, are relatively common and occur when a portion of the intestine protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. While some hernias may not cause immediate problems, they can lead to complications such as incarceration or strangulation, which can be serious and require emergency surgery.
In general, if a hernia is reducible (meaning it can be pushed back into the abdomen without pain), and there are no signs of complications such as pain, swelling, or discoloration, it may be reasonable to delay surgery. However, it is crucial to monitor the hernia closely. If the hernia becomes painful, cannot be pushed back in, or shows any signs of distress, you should seek immediate medical attention.

Regarding your specific situation, if your daughter’s hernia is indeed reducible and asymptomatic, many pediatric surgeons would agree that it is acceptable to wait until the summer break for surgery. This would allow her to enjoy her school activities without the restrictions that follow surgery, such as avoiding running or jumping. However, it is essential to have a thorough discussion with your pediatric surgeon about the specifics of her case. They can provide guidance based on the size of the hernia, her overall health, and any potential risks associated with delaying surgery.

It’s also important to consider the potential for complications. While many children do well with elective hernia surgery, there is always a risk of the hernia becoming incarcerated or strangulated, which would necessitate immediate surgical intervention regardless of timing. If your daughter’s hernia is large or if there are any concerns about its reducibility, it may be advisable to proceed with surgery sooner rather than later.

In summary, if your daughter’s hernia is not causing any symptoms and can be easily reduced, waiting until summer for surgery may be a reasonable option. However, ensure that you maintain regular follow-ups with her healthcare provider to monitor the situation closely. Always prioritize her safety and well-being, and do not hesitate to seek immediate medical advice if there are any changes in her condition.

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