Hi,I am Dr. Shanthi.E (General & Family Physician). I will be looking into your question and guiding you through the process. Please write your question below.
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?
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.
I find this answer helpful
1 Doctor agrees with this answer
You found this answer helpful
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
We use cookies in order to offer you most relevant experience and using this website you acknowledge that you have already read and understood our
Privacy Policy
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.