Umbilical hernia
What is an umbilical hernia?
An umbilical hernia occurs when abdominal contents protrude through the muscle wall. It may pouch out and looks like a balloon under the skin. A hernia operation is a common procedure that involves closing the muscle wall sac to make it stronger.
How long will it take?
The operation takes about 45 minutes to one hour. This includes the anaesthetic, operation and time spent in the recovery room. Your child will be required to stay in the Day Unit for approximately one to two hours following surgery.
When can my child eat and drink again?
If your child is awake on return to the Day Unit, clear fluids may be offered immediately (breast fed babies can have a breast feed). A light diet will be offered when fully awake.
Care at home
Pain relief
- Have a supply of paracetamol at home. It can be given as per the instructions on the packaging for the first three to five days after the operation to relieve pain or discomfort.
- Give other pain relief medicine if advised.
- Do not give aspirin.
Diet and fluids
Your child may eat and drink when feeling well.
Vomiting
It is not uncommon for children to vomit on the night of the operation. If your child is vomiting, give sips of clear fluids, try a piece of dry toast or a cracker biscuit and increase the amounts as tolerated until the vomiting settles. If vomiting continues after 24 hours seek medical advice.
Dressing
Allow plastic or clear dressing to fall off spontaneously or as advised by your child's doctor.
If your child has a plastic dressing they can bath or shower after 24 hours. If they have a white dressing this must be kept dry so sponge bath only or remove dressing after days or as advised.
Swimming
Swimming is allowed after seven days.
Points to remember
- Umbilical hernia repair surgery usually requires admission for the day only.
- Vigorous play or contact sport should be avoided for about 14 days or as advised.
- Your child may return to school after five to seven days if feeling well.
- Take child to your GP or to the nearest hospital that treats children if there is excess vomiting, persistent high temperatures or excessive pain not relieved by paracetamol.
- If you are concerned about the operation site, please contact your local GP or the surgeon's rooms.
Follow up visit
A follow up appointment will be discussed with you before you leave.
Emergency contact
To ensure your child receives the best possible care in an emergency, you should call 000 or go to your nearest Emergency Department.
If you have any concerns or questions please contact your doctor.
Contact Mater Children’s Private Brisbane
Salmon Building,
Raymond Terrace,
South Brisbane QLD 4101
Telephone: 07 3163 8111
Mater acknowledges consumer consultation in the development of this patient information.
Mater Doc Num: PI-CLN-470007
Last modified 28/4/2020.
Consumers were consulted in the development of this patient information.
Last consumer engagement date: 23/10/2019
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