Inguinal Hernia

1 y/o male pt with h/o intermittent, reducible inguinal mass presents with painful groin mass. Previously, mass increased in size with increased abdominal pressure, e.g. crying. Inguinal mass extending into scrotum on exam.

• Consider ultrasound to verify presence of hernia

• Treatment

  • Reducible inguinal mass; refer to surgery for evaluation

  • Non-reducible, tender groin mass with concern for incarceration; emergent surgical reduction indicated

  • Pt counseled about importance of follow-up with surgery

Notes

• Reducible, non-incarcerated hernias: Non-emergent surgery referral

• Reducible, incarcerated hernias: Repair should occur within 2-5 days