Summary:

 -          Inguinal hernia is the commonest surgical problem in childhood.

 -          The diagnosis is made in the presence of an inguinal swelling (preferable to examine the patient standing).

 -          All inguinal masses should be treated as incarcerated hernias unless otherwise proven.

 -          The only treatment is surgery at the earliest appropriate time irrespective of age.

Other Similar Operations and their Incidence:

 -          Undescended testis should be operated at age 6 to 18 months.  There are at least 6 reasons for surgical treatment of Undescended Testicles.

-          Umbilical Hernias present beyond age 4 years require surgery for correction.

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