Nutritional state and herniorrhaphy in premature infants

The incidence of inguinal hernia in premature infants is significantly high, and the optimal timing for its correction is controversial. Furthermore, whether the nutritional status of neonates will alter hernia diagnosis and postoperative results has not been demonstrated. The aim of this study was to analyze the results of premature neonates who underwent inguinal hernia repair before hospital discharge, comparing clinical features and perioperative data of two distinct nutritional groups. It was verified that early inguinal hernia repair is feasible without an escalation in the incidence of complications, thereby reducing the risk of incarceration and avoiding subsequent hospitalization. Moreover, premature infants had similar postoperative outcomes regardless of their nutritional status.