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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Child Diagnosed With Epigastric Hernia. Will It Be Safe To Go For Surgery?

My 15 month-old son was just diagnosed with an epigastric hernia by a pediatric surgeon. The surgeon advised surgery sooner, rather than later. Our pediatrician does not think surgery is necessary, as it is quite small and asymptomatic . I am very uneasy about putting our child through general anesthesia . Is it any safer to wait until he is two years-old or a little older?
Sat, 9 Feb 2013
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General Surgeon,  's  Response
Hello!

Thank you for the query.

If the hole which creates the hernia is small, the risk of getting stuck something there (intestine) is higher than with the big hernia. So sooner or later this hernia will have to be repaired. But as long as there is no symptoms, no abdominal pains, vomiting, lack of gas and stool, you may wait a year or so. It wont change anything with this hernia, and it will let your son to have surgery in older age. But if he starts having any symptoms or a painful lump will appear, this will be the point you should not wait anymore.

Hope this will help.
Regards.
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Child Diagnosed With Epigastric Hernia. Will It Be Safe To Go For Surgery?

Hello! Thank you for the query. If the hole which creates the hernia is small, the risk of getting stuck something there (intestine) is higher than with the big hernia. So sooner or later this hernia will have to be repaired. But as long as there is no symptoms, no abdominal pains, vomiting, lack of gas and stool, you may wait a year or so. It wont change anything with this hernia, and it will let your son to have surgery in older age. But if he starts having any symptoms or a painful lump will appear, this will be the point you should not wait anymore. Hope this will help. Regards.