Umbilical hernia

 

What is it

Some babies are born with a swelling in the belly button (umbilicus). This condition is more common in Afro-Caribbean people and in premature babies.

 

Complications

Complications are rare. Most umbilical hernias disappear spontaneously in the first 18 months of life. Surgery may be considered in older children. The timing of surgery depends on the size of the defect.

 

Submitted by Mr D Misra, Consultant Paediatric General Surgeon & Urologist