Inguinal hernia repair is the most common surgical procedure in children. It occurs in approximately 1% to 5% of healthy children. It is 10 times more common in boys than girls. Inguinal hernia (in premature cases) is seen in up to 25-30% of patients born prematurely.

The testicles begin to develop in the womb of the child during pregnancy. During the last months of pregnancy, it descends into the bag through the inguinal canal (scrotum). During descent from this canal, the peritoneum accompanies the testis and becomes a sac in the inguinal canal. Normally, this sac is expected to close on its own. If the sac remains open and fluid accumulates in it, it is called a water hernia (Hydrocele). If the abdominal organs enter the sac, this situation is defined as inguinal hernia. In both cases, continuous or intermittent swelling is seen in the groin area and progresses to the bag.

If the organ that enters the sac in inguinal hernia cannot return to the abdomen, it gets stuck in the canal and the circulation of that organ is impaired. This condition is called suffocation (incarceration). Impairment of the circulation of the organ trapped in the sac causes bigger problems and requires urgent intervention. Therefore, surgical repair of hernias should be performed as soon as possible.

Water hernia (hydrocele) can regress on its own if there is no additional problem. Considering the possibility of regression without surgery, it would be appropriate to follow up until the age of 1.5-2 years. If it does not regress, surgical repair is recommended.

Although both hernia and water hernia can be seen in adult patients, both the mechanism of formation and surgical repair techniques are different. Fluid withdrawal in water hernia, which is one of the adult patient applications, is an inappropriate treatment approach in children.

Treatment:

• Since the risk of suffocation is taken into account, the inguinal hernia should be repaired as soon as possible if the conditions are suitable for the patient and the surgeon. Early intervention is recommended because choking is likely to cause greater problems.