GEORGE S. FERZLI, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Until Always: Freedom, passion, integrity and the constant quest for innovation.
This web site is dedicated to the memory of my father Salem.

Dr. Ferzli's Procedures

Specializing in Minimally-Invasive Surgery

Pediatric Surgery

A more common and less urgent problem that can be treated with surgery is the pediatric hernia. Various types of hernias can occur in children. These include the umbilical hernia (a hernia at the belly button) and the inguinal hernia (a hernia at the groin).

An umbilical hernia is a hernia that occurs at the umbilicus or "belly button". This hernia can be present at birth or can develop gradually over time. About ten percent of infants are born with an umbilical hernia. Most of these "congenital" hernias will close by age five. If it does not close by this age, it should be surgically repaired to prevent complications from the hernia.

An ingiuinal hernia is a hernia that occurs in the groin at an area of weakness in the abdominal wall. These hernias can be congenital (a person is born with the hernia) or they can develop overtime. Males develop hernias at a rate of 10 to 1 compared to females. They tend to occur more frequently on the right. A parent may notice a bulge in the groin, especially when the child is crying. Infants are at very high risk of complications from an inguinal hernia and a repair of these hernias should be planned.

Pediatric hernia repair is often performed on an elective out patient basis. A hernia that is red, tender, or won't reduce back to a normal position should be evaluated by a doctor immediately.

Please see the section on hernia in this site to read more about this topic.

For further information, you can ask Dr. Ferzli.