Contemporary practice and perceptions surrounding the management of asymptomatic umbilical hernias in children: A survey of the American Pediatric Surgical Association
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In brief
In brief
This APSA survey of 371 pediatric surgeons reveals significant practice variation in managing asymptomatic umbilical hernias in children, with most preferring repair between ages 3-5 years. The study examines how clinical factors, natural history perceptions, and nonclinical considerations influence surgical timing decisions.
Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.
Purpose
To explore variation in perceptions regarding the natural history of asymptomatic umbilical hernias, and to characterize the influence of clinical and nonclinical factors on decision-making surrounding timing of repair.
Methods
This was a survey of the American Pediatric Surgical Association. Branching logic and Likert scale questions were used to explore perceptions surrounding natural history (risk of complications and likelihood of spontaneous closure), preferred age for repair, and influence of anatomic, caregiver, sociodemographic, and biological factors on operative timing.
Results
44% of members completed the survey (371/846). The most common age respondents would consider elective repair was 3 years (37%), although the majority preferred to wait until 4 or 5 years (54%). Most respondents estimated a