Hernia Repair in Children

Finding a lump in your child’s groin or around their belly button can be worrying, especially if it appears suddenly. Hernias are fairly common in babies and young children, but whether they need surgery depends on the type of hernia and your child’s symptoms.

At King’s College Hospital London in Dubai, our pediatric surgeons assess and treat hernias in newborns, children, and teenagers. Our UK-trained specialists perform pediatric hernia repair using open or minimally invasive (keyhole) techniques, depending on the child’s age and condition.

What Is a Hernia in Children?

A hernia occurs when tissue, sometimes part of the intestine, pushes through an opening or weak area in the abdominal wall.

Children can be born with a hernia, although the swelling may not become noticeable until weeks or months later. It often becomes more visible when a baby cries, coughs, or strains.

Unlike adult hernias, many childhood hernias develop because an opening that should have closed before or shortly after birth remains open.

What Types of Hernias Affect Children?

Inguinal Hernia

An inguinal hernia appears in the groin and sometimes extends into the scrotum in boys. It develops when an opening in the groin fails to close properly.

Inguinal hernias generally need surgical repair because they do not close on their own. Surgery also prevents complications such as part of the intestine becoming trapped.

Umbilical Hernia

An umbilical hernia causes a soft bulge around the belly button. It is particularly common in infants and may become more noticeable when a baby cries.

Many umbilical hernias close naturally as children grow. Surgery may be recommended if the hernia persists, causes symptoms, or develops complications.

When Should Your Child See a Pediatric Hernia Surgeon?

Arrange a surgical assessment if you notice:

• A lump in your child’s groin or around their belly button
• Swelling that becomes more noticeable when crying or straining
• A groin lump that appears and disappears
• Discomfort or pain around the swelling
• A hernia that has not closed as your child gets older

If the lump becomes hard, painful, or cannot be pushed back in, take your child to the emergency department. Vomiting, abdominal swelling, or a child who seems unusually distressed can also indicate a trapped hernia.

How Is a Hernia Diagnosed in Children?

Most childhood hernias can be diagnosed during a physical examination. The surgeon will examine the swelling and ask when you first noticed it.

An ultrasound may occasionally be needed if the diagnosis is uncertain.

The surgeon will also check whether the hernia can be gently reduced and whether there are signs of complications.

How Is Hernia Repair Performed in Children?

Pediatric hernia repair is performed under general anesthesia, so your child will be asleep during the operation.

For an inguinal hernia, the surgeon closes the opening in the groin through which tissue can protrude. An umbilical hernia repair involves closing the opening in the abdominal wall near the belly button.

Depending on the hernia, surgery may be performed through a small open incision or using laparoscopic instruments.

Most uncomplicated pediatric hernia repairs do not require the surgical mesh commonly used in adult hernia operations.

Can Children Have Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery?

Yes. Laparoscopic hernia repair is an option for some children, particularly those with certain inguinal hernias.

The surgeon uses a small camera and instruments inserted through tiny incisions to identify and close the hernia opening.

Keyhole surgery may be useful when examining both sides of the groin, although open repair remains a well-established treatment. Your child’s surgeon will explain which technique is appropriate.

How Long Does Recovery Take After Pediatric Hernia Repair?

Many children can go home on the same day after an uncomplicated hernia repair.

Your child may have some discomfort or mild swelling around the incision for the first few days. The surgical team will explain how to manage pain, care for the wound, and when normal activities can resume.

Babies may return to their usual feeding routine relatively quickly, while older children may need to avoid sports and strenuous activity until their surgeon advises otherwise.

Who Are the Best Pediatric Hernia Surgeons in Dubai?

The best pediatric surgeons for hernia repair in Dubai include Dr. Basem A Khalil, Dr. Muhammad Eyad Ba’Ath, and Dr. Ayman Al Jundi at King’s College Hospital Dubai.

Dr. Basem A Khalil is a UK-trained Consultant Pediatric and Neonatal Surgeon who previously headed the pediatric surgery department at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital. His experience includes general pediatric procedures and surgery for newborns with complex conditions.

Dr. Muhammad Eyad Ba’Ath trained in pediatric surgery in the UK and has experience with laparoscopic procedures. He treats abdominal conditions in children, including those that need planned surgery.

Dr. Ayman Al Jundi has more than 40 years of pediatric surgical experience and completed specialist training at Bristol Royal Hospital for Sick Children. Pediatric hernia repair is among the procedures within his clinical practice.

Why Choose King’s College Hospital Dubai for Pediatric Hernia Repair?

• UK-trained pediatric surgeons: Doctors experienced in operating on babies and children of different ages.
• Open and keyhole surgery: Both techniques are available, depending on the type of hernia.
• Pediatric anesthesia: Anesthesiologists who understand the needs of children undergoing surgery.
• NICU and PICU support: Additional care for babies and children with more complicated medical needs.
• Support for parents: Clear advice about preparing for surgery, managing discomfort, and caring for the wound at home.

How Can I Book an Appointment?

To book an appointment for pediatric hernia repair at King’s College Hospital Dubai, call +971 800 7777, complete the online form, or use the KingsHub App.