I need to know about hernia's in boys?

[Cheryl]

Hello Everyone:

I am a new member and I think these message boards are great! I have a nine year old that we think may have a hernia. Any advice I would appreciate. I have a Doctors apt. for later on today but I am going crazy here waiting.

Thank you,
Cheryl

[Diane]

http://www.hernia.org/manjava.html

A hernia is a condition in which part of the intestine bulges through a tear in muscles in the abdomen. An inguinal hernia occurs in the groin (the area between the abdomen and thigh). It is called "inguinal" because the intestines push through a weak spot in the inguinal canal, which is a triangle-shaped opening between layers of abdominal muscle near the groin. Obesity, pregnancy, heavy lifting, and straining to pass stool can cause the intestine to push against the inguinal canal.
Symptoms of inguinal hernia may include a lump in the groin near the thigh; pain in the groin; and, in severe cases, partial or complete blockage of the intestine. The doctor diagnoses hernia by doing a physical exam and by taking x-rays and blood tests to check for blockage in the intestine.

The main treatment for inguinal hernia is surgery to repair the opening in the muscle wall. This surgery is called herniorrhaphy. Sometimes the weak area is reinforced with steel mesh or wire. This operation is called hernioplasty. If the protruding intestine becomes twisted or traps stool, part of the intestine might need to be removed. This surgery is called bowel resection. (Bowel is another word for intestine.)

[kat]

Cheryl,
My 12 year old had hernia surgery in september. I knew it was a hernia, checked with family doctor who confirmed this, and scheduled his appointment with a surgeon who also agreed that surgery was needed. He was in and out before lunch. It was an inguinal hernia and did not require any mesh. It was really nothing to worry about, but did need to be taken care of. He missed a couple of weeks of P.E. but other than that no restrictions. Ds was very apprehensive about being put to sleep (to me that was the worst part, but he had had a previous surgery when he broke an arm so I was less apprehensive than that first time.) Meet with the anesthesiologist before hand. Ours was great and can help put your child at ease. Best of luck to you.

[KarlaB]

My nephew who is 12 now had hernia surgery 4 yrs ago? I can ask my sister for more info, but I do remember that everything went well and he was up and about in no time. Good luck at the dr today! Let us know what you find out.

[Cheryl]

Well we got the news that it is a hernia. We go Friday to find out when to schedule the surgery. I am a little worried about putting him to sleep but I guess some how we will get through this.

Thank you for the replys!

Cheryl

[AnnW]

You aren't "putting him to sleep"!!!! LOL
Let us know how it all turns out. Is he in much pain now?

[Diane]

I'm glad that they made a definite diagnosis. I'm sure that everything will work out just fine. When one of my day care kids had this surgery he was up and running around the very next day as if nothing had even happened. We couldn't keep him still. LOL Please let us know when you find out when your ds's surgery will be. :)