WHAT IS A HERNIA? Information Leaflet
Your Health. Our Priority.
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Tree House Childrens Unit | Stepping Hill Hospital
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What is a hernia? A hernia occurs when a loop of intestine or other abdominal contents push through an opening or weak area in the muscle of the abdomen/tummy. In children they are usually caused where an opening in the muscle wall has not fully closed after birth. The most common hernias in children are: Inguinal hernias - these usually appear as a lump or swelling in the groin or scrotum in boys, or in the labia of girls. Umbilical hernias - usually present as a lump or swelling around the belly button. The bulge is often more noticeable when the child coughs, cries or strains.
Why is the operation needed? A hernia which is reducible (pushes back in) is not usually serious but may cause discomfort. It may pose a threat if it becomes stuck, this may cut off the blood flow, resulting in damage to the intestines, the testes in boys and more rarely the ovaries in girls.
Are there any risks? The main risks are bleeding and infection of the wound site, the risks are small and can be discussed with the surgeon before surgery. The blood vessels to the testis can be bruised which may result in the testis becoming smaller.
What happens when my child comes into hospital?
You may stay with your child. Your child must be starved for surgery to avoid problems when aneasthetised. You will be sent starving instructions prior to the operation. The surgeon will explain to you and your child about the operation and ask to sign a consent form to say you understand and agree to the operation. Your nurse will tell your child about going for an operation, what to expect, about pain relief and give you a chance to ask about anything you are not sure about.
The Anaesthetist will see you before theatre to discuss the anaesthetic and pain relief. One adult will be able to stay with your child in the anaesthetic room.
What happens after my child’s surgery?
You may come with the nurse to pick your child up from the theatre. They will be nursed in their bed until they feel well enough to get up. They often recover better if they have a sleep. The nurse will check your child’s pulse, wound and condition at regular intervals until they are fully awake. The wound site will have a dressing in place. When your child is fully awake they will be assessed for pain and given pain relief. Food is usually given after they can drink without being sick.
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Tree House Childrens Unit | Stepping Hill Hospital
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When will my child be allowed to go home? Hernia operations are usually done as a day case. They will be ready to go home when: They are medically fit to do so. They are taking and tolerating food and drink. They have passed urine – usual but not always necessary. Their pain is controlled. There is a car or taxi available to take them home (not public transport). Your child will be tired when they go home and for a couple of days, they should not be left alone.
What about pain? Your child will have discomfort/pain during the first few days following surgery; this will gradually lessen as the wound heals. It is important to give them regular pain relief during this time. Ensure that you have pain relief at home. Calpol/Paracetamol last given at ………………………………………………………………………
What about the wound? Before you go the nurse will advise you about the type of dressing your child has on and when it needs to be removed.
The dressing should be removed on ……………. (the wound may look pink and bruised). Dissolvable sutures may take 2-3 weeks to dissolve. Waterproof dressing is applied over the wound. They can bathe/shower as normal. Do not put anything into the water (e.g. bubble bath, salt etc) as this may make the wound sore. Pat the wound dry with a clean towel.
What about play and activity?
Let your child wear loose fitting clothes that they feel comfortable in. If they need nappies, keep them dry by changing them regularly. A waterproof dressing may be used whilst the nappy is worn. Eat and drink normally. Pre school children will recover at their pace. School age children will need at least 2 days off and may return when you feel your child is able. Do not let them take part in any sport, strenuous activity or heavy lifting for ………weeks. (Gentle exercise such as walking and swimming are okay). If in doubt check with the nurse before you go. Older children who have jobs should see their G.P. before going back to work. Ask the nurse before you leave if you need a letter to cancel any lessons.
www.stockport.nhs.uk
Tree House Childrens Unit | Stepping Hill Hospital
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When should I seek help? Please seek help from your G.P. or contact Rainforest Ward for advice if: The wound becomes very red, hot or tender to touch. You notice swelling around the wound site, (it is normal for the wound site to feel firm and be slightly raised at first). There is discharge from the wound, which does not settle down within a couple of days. There is something you are not sure of regarding your recovery.
What about follow up? There is usually no follow up, however if follow up is required the details will follow in the post. If you have any concerns please do not hesitate to contact the ward or your G.P. for advice.
Telephone: Mulberry 0161 419 2153 (variable opening) or Rainforest 0161 419 2158 (24 hours a day).
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Tree House Childrens Unit | Stepping Hill Hospital
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If you would like this leaflet in a different format, for example, in large print, or on audiotape, or for people with learning disabilities, please contact: Patient and Customer Services, Poplar Suite, Stepping Hill Hospital. Tel: 0161 419 5678. Email:
[email protected].
Our smoke free policy Smoking is not allowed anywhere on our sites. Please read our leaflet 'Policy on Smoke Free NHS Premises' to find out more.
Leaflet number Publication date Review date Department Location
www.stockport.nhs.uk
PAED29 May 2016 June 2018 Tree House Childrens Unit Stepping Hill Hospital
Tree House Childrens Unit | Stepping Hill Hospital
