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The scrotal hernia, unlike some hernias, does not self-absorb and, if left untreated, can lead to a life-threatening entrapment. Therefore, in both infants and men, it is imperative that the disease is diagnosed as soon as possible. Check what are the causes and symptoms of the disease, and what is the surgical treatment of a scrotal hernia.

The scrotal herniais a form of oblique inguinal hernia. A scrotal hernia can be referred to wheninguinal herniamoves through the inguinal canal and descends into the scrotum. Then a bulge arises, which in medical terminology is called a hernial sac. It usually contains the small intestine (right side) or large intestine (left side).

Scrotal hernia: causes

The scrotal hernia in an infantis caused by an abnormal development in the fetus. In utero, the testicles descend into the scrotum through the inguinal canal, which grows together shortly thereafter. If it does not close, a scrotal hernia develops.

The most common scrotal hernia occurs in premature babies, because they have weak muscles and, as a consequence, gaps may form in thinner parts of their abdominal wall.

The scrotal herniamay also appearin adults . Men who are overweight and suffer from problems with urination (e.g. due to an enlarged prostate) are the most likely to suffer from this disease. Men suffering from chronic constipation and pulmonary embolism also have a tendency to form a scrotal hernia.

Scrotal hernia: symptoms

In both infants and adults, the scrotal hernia appears as a soft lump in the scrotum that becomes more visible when coughing, tense muscles, or defecating (and in men, even after prolonged standing and lifting weights). Its characteristic feature is that it rarely recoils. In addition to the bulge in the scrotum, symptoms such as burning, pain, and a feeling of "pulling" are usually present. Pain can radiate to the testicle, especially when pressing on a tumor. The infant reports discomfort by crying and screaming.

Scrotal hernia: complications

A dangerous complication of an untreated scrotal hernia is its entrapment. It occurs when the contents of the hernia cannot flow back into the abdominal cavity. The compressed intestine does not receive the right amount of blood, which can lead to ischemia and, consequently, to necrosis. This is a direct threat to your life.

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To prevent this, the hernia should be removed before surgery. It is best to do this while bathing (and if your baby is asleep) and your muscles are relaxed. Then you should gently press the protrusion with your finger, pushing it inside.

Scrotal hernia: diagnosis

A scrotal hernia, like other hernias, is diagnosed during a physical examination at a doctor's office. To rule out other possible causes of the lump, your doctor may order ultrasound and X-ray examinations.

Scrotal hernia: treatment

The scrotal hernia, unlike, for example, the umbilical hernia, does not regress spontaneously, therefore surgical intervention is necessary. It usually takes place after the child reaches the age of one. In turn, the man should see a doctor if he notices the above-mentioned. The traditional technique used for the surgical treatment of hernias, including the scrotal hernia, is Bassini's hernioplasty (using the abdominal own tissues). Hernioplasty by the Bassini method is classified as one of the so-called "Tension" and carries the risk of recurrence of the hernia. The recovery period is 4 to 12 weeks.

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Therefore, it is recommended to perform the Lichtenstein procedure, during which the doctor protects the operated area of ​​the abdominal wall with a polypropylene net. After such surgery, the risk of hernia recurrence is lower than in the case described above. Convalescence is also shorter and takes 1-3 weeks.

The laparoscopic technique is also used in invasive treatment. Then, special guides are placed in the groin, through which surgical instruments are inserted, which are used to perform the operation and sew the safety mesh.

Scrotal hernia: convalescence

For the first four weeks after surgery, no lifting may be needed. If the patient performs heavy physical work, he may return to it a few weeks after the surgery. During convalescence, frequent walking is recommended, which significantlyaccelerates the recovery process.

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Male diseases