Dr. Raghul M
D R. R A G H U L
  • Dr. Raghul M. MBBS MS DNB FMAS FICRS MCh(Paed Surg)

 

Clinical Features Necessitating Circumcision:

  1. Phimosis – Inability to retract the foreskin over the glans, leading to recurrent infections or obstruction.
  2. Paraphimosis – Retracted foreskin that cannot return to its original position, causing swelling and ischemia.
  3. Balanoposthitis – Recurrent inflammation or infection of the glans and foreskin.
  4. Recurrent UTIs – Particularly in children with underlying urological abnormalities.
  5. Balanitis Xerotica Obliterans (BXO) – A progressive scarring condition leading to phimosis and meatal stenosis.
  6. Penile Hygiene Issues – Persistent smegma accumulation leading to infections or irritation.

Indications for Circumcision:

  1. Medical Indications:Pathological Phimosis (due to BXO or recurrent infections).
  2. Recurrent Balanoposthitis despite conservative treatment.
  3. Recurrent UTIs in patients with structural urological abnormalities.

 

Clinical Features of Inguinal Hernia in Children:

  1. Groin or Scrotal Swelling – Intermittent, reducible swelling in the inguinal region, more prominent with crying or straining.
  2. Discomfort or Irritability – Infants may be fussy or unsettled due to mild discomfort.
  3. Enlarging Mass with Activity – Hernia may become more prominent when the child is active and reduce when lying down.
  4. Irreducibility and Tenderness (Incarceration) – Suggests trapped bowel or omentum, requiring urgent attention.
  5. Skin Changes and Vomiting (Strangulation) – Redness, tenderness, vomiting, and signs of bowel obstruction indicate compromised blood supply, requiring emergency surgery.

Indications for Surgical Repair of Pediatric Inguinal Hernia:

  1. All Diagnosed Cases – Unlike adults, pediatric inguinal hernias do not resolve spontaneously and require surgical repair.
  2. Incarcerated Hernia – If the hernia becomes non-reducible, urgent surgery is needed to prevent strangulation.
  3. Strangulated Hernia – Emergency surgery is required to prevent bowel ischemia and necrosis.
  4. Bilateral Hernia in Infants – High risk in preterm infants; elective bilateral exploration may be considered.

 

Clinical Features of Hydrocele in Children:

  1. Scrotal Swelling – Painless, non-tender swelling in the scrotum, which may be unilateral or bilateral.
  2. Transillumination Positive – When a light is shone through the scrotum, the fluid-filled sac allows light to pass through.
  3. Fluctuating Size – In communicating hydrocele, the swelling may increase during the day and reduce when lying down.
  4. Non-Reducibility – Unlike an inguinal hernia, a hydrocele cannot be pushed back into the abdomen.
  5. No Signs of Inflammation – Typically no redness, warmth, or pain unless infected (rare).

Indications for Surgical Repair (Hydrocelectomy):

  1. Persistent Hydrocele Beyond 1–2 Years of Age – Most congenital hydroceles resolve spontaneously; surgery is considered if it persists.
  2. Large or Symptomatic Hydrocele – Causing discomfort, recurrent infections, or difficulty in movement.
  3. Associated Inguinal Hernia – If a hydrocele coexists with an inguinal hernia, surgical correction is required.
  4. Progressive Enlargement – Suggesting a persistent communication with the peritoneal cavity.