[Adhesive strapping for umbilical hernias in children: does it accelerate closure?]
Anne E Petersen1,2, Maaike Hogerwerf1, Mette T Vlieger1
1Amsterdam UMC, Emma Kinderziekenhuis, Kinderbuikcentrum, afdeling Kinderchirurgie, Amsterdam.
Insights
Adhesive strapping of pediatric umbilical hernias can speed up hernia closure. This simple intervention resolved a young infant's reducible umbilical hernia within three months.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric surgery
- Congenital abnormalities
Background:
- Umbilical hernias are common congenital conditions in children.
- While generally benign, they can cause parental concern and infant discomfort.
- Previous studies suggest hernia taping accelerates defect closure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of adhesive strapping for pediatric umbilical hernias.
- To assess the impact of this intervention on hernia closure time and associated symptoms.
Main Methods:
- A case study of a five-week-old infant with a reducible umbilical hernia presenting with distress.
- Parents initiated adhesive strapping after pediatric surgeon consultation.
- The intervention involved applying adhesive tape to the hernia.
Main Results:
- Complete resolution of the umbilical hernia swelling occurred within three months.
- The infant experienced resolution of distress episodes.
- Adhesive strapping demonstrated a positive outcome in this case.
Conclusions:
- Adhesive strapping is an effective method for accelerating umbilical hernia closure in children.
- This conservative treatment option warrants consideration in clinical decision-making with parents.
- Early intervention with adhesive strapping may improve outcomes and reduce parental anxiety.
Abstract:
An umbilical hernia is a common and generally benign congenital condition in children, which may occasionally cause discomfort in the child and concern for parents. Taping of an umbilical hernia in children has been shown to accelerate the closure of the hernia defect. A five-week-old girl with a reducible umbilical hernia, associated with episodes of distress, was seen at the youth health care center. After consultation with a pediatric surgeon, the parents initiated adhesive strapping of the hernia. Within three months, the swelling had resolved completely. Adhesive strapping of an umbilical hernia in children accelerates the closure process and merits consideration in shared decision-making with parents.
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