Question
At five months old, the baby has a hernia, with the condition described as a large hernia but not incarcerated. Why is it recommended to wait until after one year for surgery?
Answer
The decision depends on whether the child’s hernia can return to the abdominal cavity on its own. If it can, abdominal belt compression therapy is needed to avoid abdominal pressure. Generally, some children can grow and recover on their own within two years. If not, surgery may be necessary. It is recommended to first go to the hospital for a check-up. For children under two years old, surgery is not recommended if conservative treatment is possible. Children have relatively weak abdominal walls, and the incidence of incisional hernias is relatively low.