Umbilical Hernia Repair (child)
This document will give you information about an umbilical
hernia repair. If you have any questions, you should ask your GP or
other relevant health professional.
What is an umbilical hernia?
There is a natural weakness in the abdominal wall behind the
umbilicus, caused by the way babies develop in the womb. If the
contents of the abdomen push through, this produces a lump called a
hernia (see figure 1).
Figure 1 - Hernia - bowel pushing through a
weakness in the muscle wall of the abdomen.
If your child has a hernia, you may notice a swelling,
particularly when they cry or strain.
Umbilical hernias can be dangerous because the intestines or
other structures within the abdomen can get trapped and have their
blood supply cut off (strangulated hernia). Although umbilical
hernias hardly ever cause these complications in childhood, they
are more likely to do so in adulthood.
What are the benefits of surgery?
Your child should no longer have the hernia. Surgery should
prevent your child from having any of the serious complications
that the hernia can cause in adult life.
Are there any alternatives to surgery?
It is safe to see if the hernia will close without an
operation.
If your child is over 4 and they still have an umbilical hernia,
the hernia is unlikely to close on its own.
What does the operation involve?
The operation is performed under a general anaesthetic. The
operation usually takes between half an hour and three-quarters of
an hour.
Your surgeon will make a small cut around half the umbilicus and
close the opening in the tough layer of the abdominal wall with
strong stitches.
What complications can happen?
1 General complications of any operation
- Pain
- Bleeding
- Infection in the surgical wound
- Unsightly scarring
2 Specific complications of this operation
How soon will my child recover?
Your child should be able to go home the same day. Your child
should be able to go to school after one week but should avoid
strenuous activity for six weeks. Occasionally the hernia comes
back.
Summary
An umbilical hernia is a common condition. If your child is over
4, surgery is usually recommended to prevent serious complications
that can happen in adult life.
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