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Inguinal hernia: a common problem of premature infants weighing 1,000 grams or less at birth
Insights
Premature infants weighing 1,000 gm or less at birth have a high incidence of inguinal hernias. This condition can lead to serious complications, necessitating increased physician awareness.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Neonatology
- Congenital Anomalies
Background:
- Premature infants weighing 1,000 gm or less at birth represent a growing population due to advances in neonatal care.
- Inguinal hernias are a known congenital anomaly, but their incidence in extremely low birth weight infants requires specific attention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of inguinal hernias in surviving premature infants weighing 1,000 gm or less at birth.
- To highlight the potential complications associated with inguinal hernias in this vulnerable population.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 37 consecutive surviving premature infants.
- Infants included weighed 1,000 gm or less at birth.
- Data collected included diagnosis of inguinal hernia and any associated complications.
Main Results:
- Thirty percent (11 out of 37) of the infants developed inguinal hernias.
- Two infants experienced hernia incarceration.
- One infant suffered a cardiac arrest during surgical repair.
Conclusions:
- There is a significant incidence of inguinal hernias in surviving premature infants weighing 1,000 gm or less.
- Physicians must be aware of the increased risk and potential serious complications, including incarceration and surgical risks, in this population.
Abstract:
Thirty percent of 37 consecutive surviving premature infants weighing 1,000 gm or less at birth were noted to develop inguinal hernias. Incarceration occurred in two infants. One infant suffered a cardiac arrest during repair of the hernia. In view of the increased survival now being reported in these tiny prematures, it is important that physicians recognize the high incidence and potential hazards of this congenital anomaly in surviving premature infants weighing 1,000 gm or less at birth.