PHẪU THUẬT NỘI SOI THOÁT VỊ BẸN CHO BỆNH NHI 11 TUỔI

Successful Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Surgery for an 11-Year-Old Patient

A male pediatric patient (11 years old, from Bac Ninh) was admitted to the hospital with a bulge in the right groin area, which became more prominent during physical activity, coughing, or prolonged standing, and subsided when lying down. These are typical signs of an inguinal hernia—a condition in which part of the abdominal contents (such as the intestine or fatty tissue) protrudes through a weak point in the abdominal wall in the groin, forming a visible lump. In boys, the hernia may extend into the scrotum.

Notably, the patient had a history of previous open surgery for a left-sided inguinal hernia, which increased the risk of hernia recurrence or the development of a hernia on the opposite side if not closely monitored and treated in a timely manner.

After thorough clinical examination and completion of essential preoperative investigations, including abdominal ultrasound, X-ray imaging, and blood tests, the doctors confirmed the diagnosis of right-sided inguinal hernia and indicated laparoscopic surgical treatment.

The surgery was performed by MSc, Specialist Level I Physician Bui Thanh Thien and an experienced General Surgery team. This minimally invasive laparoscopic approach not only allowed for definitive treatment of the hernia but also enabled comprehensive visualization of both groin regions, thereby minimizing the risk of missed lesions or recurrence. The operation was carried out smoothly and safely.

Thanks to the advantages of laparoscopic surgery, the patient had very small incisions with excellent cosmetic results, especially when compared with the previous open-surgery scar. Postoperatively, the child experienced significantly less pain, recovered quickly, and was able to resume eating and light physical activity early. The patient’s condition remained stable and he was discharged after a short hospital stay.

Laparoscopic Surgery – An Optimal Solution for Treating Inguinal Hernia in Children

Inguinal hernia is a common condition in children. Treatment with laparoscopic surgery offers several outstanding benefits:

• Only a few very small skin incisions are required, minimizing tissue damage, reducing postoperative pain, and lowering the risk of infection compared with traditional open surgery.
• The laparoscopic approach allows surgeons to fully visualize both groin areas, enabling early detection of a contralateral hernia (even if asymptomatic) and treatment in a single operation.
• Small, discreet incisions that leave minimal to no visible scarring, making it especially suitable for children during their growth and development.
• Less postoperative pain, with early return to normal eating, light activity, and daily routines; hospitalization time is typically short.
• The procedure is performed using pediatric-specific laparoscopic instruments, ensuring precise manipulation and reducing the risk of complications and recurrence.

MSc, Specialist Level I Physician Bui Thanh Thien advises parents that if a child is found to have a bulge in the groin area—particularly those who have previously undergone inguinal hernia surgery—they should seek early medical evaluation at a specialized healthcare facility for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Choosing laparoscopic surgery at TNH Viet Yen Hospital helps ensure effective, gentle, and safe treatment for children, providing peace of mind for families and improving the young patient’s quality of life.