Question
When a child’s hernia occurs and the intestine pops out, immediate medical assistance should be sought. However, when faced with the doctor’s recommendation for surgery, parents may hesitate due to their child’s young age. In such a situation, how should the child’s hernia problem be handled?
Answer
Pediatric hernias are mainly categorized into two types: congenital inguinal hernia and umbilical hernia, with their main causes related to congenital factors. Inguinal hernias are often due to an incompletely closed processus vaginalis, while umbilical hernias are caused by an umbilical ring that did not close in time. For children over 1 year old, inguinal hernias usually cannot heal on their own. If the umbilical hernia is over 4 years old or if the umbilical ring diameter exceeds 2-3 centimeters, surgical treatment should be considered. When deciding on a treatment plan, it is important to communicate fully with the doctor to understand the necessity of surgery and potential risks, in order to make the most suitable choice for the child.