Everything about Umbilical Hernia totally explained
Umbilical hernia is a
congenital malformation, especially common in infants of
African descent, and more frequent in
boys.
Presentation
A
hernia is present at the site of the
umbilicus (commonly called a navel, or belly button) in the newborn; although sometimes quite large, these hernias tend to resolve without any treatment by around the age of 5 years. Obstruction and strangulation of the hernia is rare because the underlying defect in the abdominal wall is larger than in an
inguinal hernia of the newborn. The size of the base of the herniated tissued is inversely correlated with risk of strangulation (for example narrow base is more likely to strangulate).
Babies are prone to this malformation because of the process during
fetal development by which the abdominal organs form outside the abdominal cavity, later returning into it through an opening which will become the umbilicus.
Differential diagnosis
Importantly this type of hernia must be distinguished from a
para-umbilical hernia which occurs in adults and involves a defect in the midline near to but not through the umbilicus, and from
omphalocele.
Treatment
When the orifice is small (< 1 or 2cm), 90% close within 3 years (some sources state 85% of all umbilical hernias, regardless of size), and if these hernias are asymptomatic, reducible, and don't enlarge, no surgery is needed (and in other cases it must be considered). In some communities mothers routinely push the small bulge back in and tape a coin over the palpable hernia hole until closure occurs. This practice isn't medically recommended as there's a small risk of trapping a loop of bowel under part of the coin resulting in a small area of
ischemic bowel. The use of bandages or other articles to continuously reduce the hernia isn't
evidence-based.
An umbilical hernia can be fixed 2 different ways. The surgeon can opt to stitch the walls of the abdominal or he/she can place mesh over the opening and stitch it to the abdominal walls. The latter is of a stronger hold and is commonly used for larger tears in the abdominal wall. Most surgeons will repair the hernia 6 weeks after the baby is born.
Further Information
Get more info on 'Umbilical Hernia'.
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