Inguinal Hernia

Inguinal hernia is the most common childhood urological problem that requires surgery. It is usually the result of a non-hereditary birth defect, occurring in about 5 percent of babies in the United States. Unlike adult hernias, they are not caused by straining, rupture or muscle weakness.

A hernia results from a small sac that comes through the inguinal ring, an opening in the abdominal wall that is normally open during fetal life and closes permanently about the time the baby is born. In some infants, this opening doesn't close.

Should your child require surgery, a skilled team of urologists, anesthesiologists, nurses and other specialists who have been trained to work with the special needs of developing children will care for your child. We also recognize the important role parents have on our team.

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Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Children's Hospital.
Last updated May 8, 2007