EC Paediatrics

Background: Inguinal hernia is one of common surgical problem in neonates. Herniotomy in neonates carries technical challenges and postoperative risks. This study evaluates the difficulties, intraoperative hazards and postoperative outcomes of inguinal herniotomy in neonates over two years.

Methods: A prospective interventional study was conducted on 32 neonates who underwent inguinal herniotomy between January 2022 and December 2023. Demographics, intraoperative challenges, complications, and outcomes were analyzed statistically.

Results: Of 32 neonates, 26 (81.25%) were male and 6 (18.75%) were female. The most common difficulty was vas deferens handling in 10 (31.25%) and hernia sac handling. Intraoperative hazards included injury to the vas (1 case) and bleeding (3 cases). Postoperative complications occurred in 5 (15.6%) patients, including recurrence (1), scrotal hematoma (3). The recurrence rate was 3.125%. Mean operative time was 32 ± 5 minutes. No mortality was observed.

Conclusion: Neonatal herniotomy is safe but technically challenging. Gentle handling, high ligation of sac, and hemostasis are essential. Early diagnosis and timely surgery reduce risk.

 Keywords: Neonatal Hernia; Herniotomy; Operative Hazard; Recurrence; Surgical Outcome

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