What is umbilical hernia in children?
Dec 20, 2019
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shi Jizhou
Introduction
An umbilical hernia occurs when a portion of the small intestine protrudes through a defect in the umbilical region, forming a bulge at the navel. Anatomically and developmentally, the umbilicus seals shortly after birth, rendering it a relatively weak area. Umbilical hernias are also associated with the development of the abdominal wall musculature; during infancy, the left and right rectus abdominis muscles—and their anterior and posterior sheaths—have not yet fused at the umbilical region, thereby predisposing infants to umbilical hernias.
Umbilical hernia occurs when a portion of the small intestine protrudes through a defect in the umbilical region, forming a visible swelling at the navel. It is a developmental anomaly and a common condition in infants; its incidence is higher among preterm infants than in full-term infants.
From an anatomical and developmental perspective, the umbilical ring normally closes shortly after birth and fuses with the scarred skin remaining after umbilical cord detachment, rendering the umbilical region inherently weak.
Umbilical hernia is also associated with the development of abdominal wall musculature. During infancy, the two rectus abdominis muscles and their anterior and posterior sheaths have not yet fully converged at the umbilicus—this incomplete fusion predisposes infants to umbilical hernia.
Under these conditions, any factor that increases intra-abdominal pressure—such as coughing, diarrhea, or vigorous crying—can cause abdominal contents to protrude through the unsealed umbilical ring.
