During embryological development in boys, the testes develop and descend through an opening, the inguinal canal, into the scrotum. As this occurs, a membrane from the abdominal wall descends, as well. If this membrane persists, the intestines may lower into this canal or the scrotum, forming a hernia. If this sac fills with fluid from the abdomen, then it is called a hydrocele. In little girls, the round ligament from the uterus goes into the inguinal canal. They may have intestine or an ovary that gets trapped.
Symptoms:
Treatment:
An incision is made and the hernia sac is located and tied off. In infants, the other side of the groin may be explored or evaluated with a scope to see if repair is necessary, as hernias develop on the opposite side in about 50% of cases.
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.