An epigastric hernia is a small hole in the wall of the stomach muscle between the chest and the belly button. Part of the intestine pushes through this hole. Most epigastric hernias are small.
Epigastric hernias are often a condition a baby is born with. They are more common in boys than in girls.
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What are the signs and symptoms of an epigastric hernia?
Some epigastric hernias do not cause any symptoms. If your child does have symptoms, they may include:
- A small bulge above the belly button
- Discomfort or pain in the area that may get worse when the child coughs, sneezes or stands
What causes an epigastric hernia?
Epigastric hernias occur during pregnancy when the muscles in the stomach don’t grow together correctly during a baby’s development. They can also occur after birth if the muscles are weak or strained.
How is an epigastric hernia treated?
Epigastric hernias do not close on their own, so most will need surgery. At Connecticut Children’s, this surgery is often done as an outpatient procedure so your child can go home the same day.
During hernia repair surgery, your child is put under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make a small incision at the area, push the intestine back inside the muscle wall and close the hole with stiches.
Doctors at Connecticut Children’s can determine the right plan if your child requires treatment for an epigastric hernia.