CLINICAL UPDATE Management of paediatric hernia

A hernia is the protrusion of an organ, such as the bowel, through the wall of the cavity in which it normally resides.(1) Paediatric hernias are common developmental abnormalities which have different management from their adult equivalents. Conducting research in the management of paediatric hernias is challenging because of ethical considerations and variations in treatment practice. This article provides the generalist with essential information, enabling them to educate parents, alleviate anxiety, and where appropriate enable management of hernias in primary care. We discuss three types of common paediatric hernias.