Herniograms

Abstract

A retrospective study of herniograms in 36 infants and children between the ages of 4 weeks and 12 years was undertaken. Herniography accurately predicted the surgical findings in 32 of 36 patients, a diagnostic accuracy of 88%, which compares favorably with the usual clinical diagnostic accuracy of only 50% to 60%. In 26 patients herniography added significantly to the clinical findings and resulted in improved patient care. Herniography has been demonstrated to be a relatively simple and safe procedure and is recommended in all children with unilateral hernia and those with a history of a bulge, unconfirmed by physical findings. Other indications for contrast peritoneography are suggested.