Inguinal Hernia

Access exceptional care for inguinal hernia at Montefiore Einstein Urology at the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore Einstein (CHAM). As a leader in Urology, we are an academic-based referral site for the most complex and high-risk cases. For more than a century, we have been at the forefront of innovation, research and clinical care for genitourinary (GU) conditions.

Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of GU conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of specialists is passionate about uncovering diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes.

At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can expect compassionate research-based treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety. We are committed to ensuring your child will receive the best patient- and family-centered care in a supportive and nurturing environment.

When you want only the best for your child, turn to our dedicated providers who will develop a highly personalized treatment plan.

Montefiore Einstein offers the following content from Healthwise’s health information library.

What Is Inguinal Hernia

An inguinal hernia is a condition that causes abdominal contents to bulge through a weak spot in the groin or scrotum. In pediatric cases, an inguinal hernia is typically detected at birth. According to the National Institutes of Health, inguinal hernias are most common among children aged 0 to 5 years old; premature babies are at higher risk. Inguinal hernias may become stuck, or incarcerated, outside the lower abdominal wall. An incarcerated hernia can become strangulated when the blood flow is blocked, leading to a dangerous condition in babies and young children.

Causes of Inguinal Hernia

Pediatric inguinal hernias are usually caused before birth by the incomplete closure of the inguinal canal (the passageway in the lower abdomen that allows structures to pass between the abdominal cavity and the external genitalia) openings inside the abdomen. Abdominal contents, including part of the intestine, may bulge through this opening and form a hernia. This condition in the fetus may not cause an inguinal hernia until several years after birth.

Signs & Symptoms of Inguinal Hernia

Primary symptoms of inguinal hernia include:

  • Bulge in the groin or scrotum area.
  • A feeling of pressure or heaviness in your groin.
  • Pain in your groin, especially when straining, lifting, coughing or bending over.
  • A burning or pinching sensation that may radiate through your pelvis or down your leg.

Symptoms of a strangulated hernia may include:

  • Abdominal bloating and nausea
  • Fever
  • Hernia bulge that suddenly appears larger
  • Redness or pain in the area of the hernia

Diagnosing Inguinal Hernia

Inguinal hernia can be diagnosed during a complete physical examination. Your child’s pediatrician may order additional imaging tests, such as an ultrasound and rarely magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to gain a comprehensive picture of the condition.

Treating Inguinal Hernia

Surgery is typically recommended for inguinal hernias in babies and young children. Our specialized urologists, surgeons and anesthesiologists work across disciplines and in close collaboration with the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore Einstein (CHAM) to develop a comprehensive, effective surgical plan tailored to each patient.