Inguinal hernia versus hydrocoeles

Presentation
Both conditions present with a swelling in the groin, often extending down into the scrotum. A hernia usually has loops of bowel which descend into the scrotum, while a hydrocoele consists simply of fluid around a testis.

Complications
A hydrocoele is usually innocuous, while a hernia may obstruct and result in a very sick child with severe tummy pain and vomiting.

Is treatment required? 
If a hydrocoele is persistent, then it may need surgery anytime between 3-5 years of age , depending on the size. We strongly recommend that a hernia is fixed within 2-3 weeks of diagnosis, to prevent it from obstructing in the future with grave consequences.


Inguinal herniotomy in young infants with particular emphasis on premature neonates.  D.Misra, V.Boston. J. Paed. Surg 1994, 29:1496-8.

Dr Devesh Misra
Consultant Paediatric Surgeon and Paediatric Urologist