HERNIA and HYDROCELE

An inguinal hernia is a common condition in males that occurs when a segment of intestine passes through the abdominal wall in the groin on one or both sides. Inguinal hernia is more common in premature infants and appears as swelling in the groin. It may be more evident with crying and straining. It is important to repair this condition to prevent the intestinal segment from becoming strangulated or "fixed" in the groin wall. The procedure is called a herniorrhaphy.

Hydrocele is a condition where the scrotum is abnormally large due to excess fluid in the scrotum and poor drainage. The size of the hydrocele may fluctuate and this condition may occur on one or both sides. Many times a hydrocele is associated with inguinal hernia due to a weakening in the groin. Both conditions may be repaired with an outpatient surgical procedure.

The information provided in this section should in no way serve as medical advice. Readers are encouraged to confirm the information contained here with other sources and seek medical advice from a physician. Neither the authors nor any other party who has been involved in the preparation or publication of this work warrants that the information contained herein is in every respect accurate or complete and they are not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained for the use of such information.

Information provided by the Division of Urology, Children's Hospital, Boston, MA.

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