A hernia is a condition where an internal body part protrudes through a hole or weakness in the muscles or tissues that hold it in place. This condition can affect not only adults but also babies.
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Types of Hernias in Babies and Their Symptoms
The most common types of hernias in babies are inguinal hernia and umbilical hernia. Each type has different signs and symptoms.
Inguinal Hernia in Babies
Inguinal hernia in babies occurs in the groin area. “Inguinal” refers to the groin. This condition happens when a portion of the baby’s intestine pushes through a hole in the abdominal wall via the inguinal canal.
Normally, the inguinal canal closes before birth, but sometimes it remains partially open. This opening allows part of the intestine to press through, resulting in an inguinal hernia.
Inguinal hernias can occur in infants, toddlers, children, and adults. Among children, they are most common in those under the age of six. About 90% of inguinal hernias in newborns occur in boys and are more frequent in premature infants.
The main symptom of an inguinal hernia in children is a bulge under the skin in the groin or scrotum. The bulge may become more noticeable when the child cries or strains, and it can appear on one or both sides of the groin. The bulge may also disappear when the child is relaxed or sleeping.
Other symptoms of inguinal hernia may include:
- Pain and discomfort that improve with rest
- A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the groin
- Swollen scrotum
- Burning sensation at the site of the bulge
- Fussiness and trouble feeding in babies
Umbilical Hernia in Babies
An umbilical hernia occurs when part of the intestine protrudes through an opening in the abdominal muscles near the belly button. This type of hernia is most common in infants, though it can also affect adults.
In babies, an umbilical hernia may be visible when they cry, causing the navel to protrude. This is a hallmark sign of an umbilical hernia.
Umbilical hernias in children often close on their own within the first two years of life, although in some cases they may remain open until the age of five or older.
Symptoms of an umbilical hernia include swelling or a soft bulge near the belly button. In babies with this type of hernia, the bulge may only be noticeable when they cry, cough, or strain.
Umbilical hernias in children are usually painless. However, when they appear in adults, they may cause abdominal discomfort.
Treatment for Hernia in Babies
Hernias in babies are typically treated with surgery.
- For inguinal hernias, a pediatric surgeon will make a small incision in the groin area and push the herniated tissue back into the abdomen. They will then close the opening in the inguinal canal to prevent future hernias.
- For umbilical hernias, the surgeon will make a small incision near the belly button and push the hernia back into the abdominal cavity.
Doctors at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital who are experts in treating hernias in babies
1. dr. Sastiono, Sp.B Subsp.Ped(K)
dr. Sastiono, Sp.B Subsp.Ped(K), is one of Indonesia’s most experienced pediatric surgeons. With well-known expertise and a solid reputation, he is a top choice for managing various pediatric surgical conditions.
In addition to treating hernias, dr. Sastiono is highly skilled in handling a wide range of medical conditions in infants and children, including:
- Congenital abnormalities of the digestive tract, abdominal wall, and diaphragm
- Appendicitis, hernias, hydrocele, and phimosis
- Jaundice (yellowing) caused by liver and bile duct disorders
- Tumors in infants and children
- Liver transplantation
Clinic hours at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital:
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
2. dr. Flora Agustina, Sp.BA
dr. Flora Agustina, Sp.BA, is a pediatric surgeon who is also skilled in treating hernias. She completed her general medical degree at the Christian University of Indonesia in Jakarta and her pediatric surgery specialization at Padjadjaran University in Bandung.
To continuously enhance her expertise, dr. Flora actively participates in various medical trainings and courses, including:
- Basic Surgical Skills Course (BSSC), Bali, 2012
- Basic Laparoscopic Surgery Course, Bali, 2015
- Definitive Surgery for Trauma and Acute Care Management, Bali, 2014
- Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS), Bandung, 2009
- Workshop on Upper & Lower GI Endoscopy, Bali, 2015
- Symposium on “Complications in Pediatric Surgery” – 24th PERBANI Scientific Meeting, Bandung, 2016
Clinic hours at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital:
- Monday: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
If you would like to consult with dr. Sastiono or dr. Flora regarding hernias in babies and their treatment options, feel free to visit Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital.
To make your visit easier, use the Chat via WhatsApp, Book Appointment, or the Care Dokter app, available on Google Play and the App Store, to check queue numbers, book appointments, and access other useful information.
