Child health · UKMLA & AKT
Inguinal hernia
A free high-yield preview for the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test. Below are the key points to recognise inguinal hernia — the full SA Note notes add investigations, management, complications and 10 practice questions.
Key high-yield points
- Protrusion of abdominal contents through the anterior abdominal wall into the inguinal canal - produces a visible/palpable groin bulge
- In children: virtually all are indirect - caused by a patent processus vaginalis
- Affects ~1-3% of children; male:female 7:1; right-sided predominance (right testis descends later)
- Premature infants at highest risk - processus vaginalis almost invariably patent at birth
Direct hernias are rare in children - if present, suspect a connective tissue disorder (Ehlers-Danlos, Marfan's syndrome).
Unlock the full Inguinal hernia revision
Get the complete high-yield notes (4 more sections covering investigations, management and complications), 10 practice questions, mock exams and AI tutoring. Start free.