Name of the Procedure:

Repair Umbilical Hernia, Younger than Age 5 Years; Reducible

Summary

An umbilical hernia repair is a surgical procedure performed on children under the age of five when a reducible hernia is present. This condition occurs when a part of the intestine protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles near the belly button.

Purpose

This procedure addresses an umbilical hernia, which can lead to discomfort and potential complications. The goal is to push the protruding tissue back into place and strengthen the abdominal wall to prevent recurrence.

Indications

This procedure is indicated for children younger than five years who have a reducible umbilical hernia. Symptoms may include a noticeable bulge near the belly button that becomes more apparent during crying, coughing, or straining.

Preparation

• The patient will need to fast for a certain period before the procedure, usually 6-8 hours.
• Parents may need to adjust any medications the child is taking.
• Diagnostic tests, such as an ultrasound, may be conducted to assess the hernia.

Procedure Description

1. The child is given general anesthesia to induce sleep and eliminate pain.
2. A small incision is made near the belly button.
3. The surgeon gently pushes the protruding intestine back into the abdominal cavity.
4. The weak spot in the abdominal wall is reinforced with sutures.
5. The incision is closed with stitches, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Duration

The procedure typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes.

Setting

The surgery is performed in a hospital or a specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• Pediatric Surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical Nurses
• Operating Room Technician

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Infection, bleeding, and reaction to anesthesia.
• Rare risks: Damage to surrounding tissues, recurrence of the hernia, and wound complications.

Benefits

The main benefit is the correction of the hernia, which can immediately alleviate discomfort and prevent potential complications. Most children recover quickly and are back to normal activities within a few days.

Recovery

• The child might need to rest and limit physical activity for a few days.
• Pain is usually managed with over-the-counter pain relief medications.
• Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing.
• Parents should watch for signs of infection or complications at the incision site.

Alternatives

• Watchful waiting: In some cases, umbilical hernias can resolve on their own without surgery.
• Non-surgical treatments: Rarely used as first-line treatments for umbilical hernias.
• Each alternative has pros and cons, and the best option depends on the individual case and the severity of the hernia.

Patient Experience

The child will be under general anesthesia and will not feel anything during the procedure. Post-surgery, mild discomfort or pain at the incision site is common but manageable with medication. Most children can return to their normal activities within a few days, with minimal long-term effects.