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Inguinal Hernia Development in Very Low-Birth-Weight Infants: A Case-Control Study.
Sezin Unal1, Dilek Ulubas Isik1, Ahmet Yagmur Bas1
1Department of Neonatology, Etlik Zubeyde Hanım Women's Teaching and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey.
Summary
The incidence of inguinal hernia (IH) in very low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants is 10.1%. Respiratory distress syndrome and delayed full enteral feeds significantly increase IH risk in preterms, necessitating careful monitoring post-discharge.
Area of Science:
- Neonatalogy
- Pediatric Surgery
Background:
- Inguinal hernia (IH) is a common surgical condition in infants, but its incidence and risk factors in preterm infants, particularly those with very low birth weight (VLBW), are not well-established.
- Prematurity is a significant risk factor for IH, yet specific data from certain regions are lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of inguinal hernia (IH) in very low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants.
- To identify the timing of IH diagnosis in this population.
- To investigate risk factors associated with IH development in VLBW infants.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective case-control study was conducted.
- Included VLBW infants (gestational age < 32 weeks) discharged from the hospital.
- Control group comprised matched VLBW infants without IH.
Main Results:
- The incidence of IH was 10.1% in VLBW infants and 16.1% in extremely low-birth-weight infants.
- The male-to-female ratio for IH was 3.4:1, and 40% of cases were bilateral.
- Diagnosis occurred at a median postmenstrual age of 39 weeks, with 68.6% diagnosed after discharge.
- Respiratory distress syndrome increased IH risk by 2.3-fold, and achieving full enteral feeds on or after day 10 increased risk by 4.5-fold.
Conclusions:
- VLBW infants with respiratory distress syndrome and those achieving full enteral feeds late require close monitoring for IH.
- A significant proportion of IH cases manifest after hospital discharge, highlighting the need for parental education and vigilant post-discharge follow-up.
