title: Scrotal approach for inguinal hernia and hydrocele repair in boys.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The scrotal approach to repairing inguinal hernias and hydroceles in boys is a relatively new approach, which offers the paediatric surgeon the choice of leaving a more cosmetically acceptable scar. This paper reports the experience of one centre using this approach.
  
  
  METHODS
  195 consecutive repairs in 176 boys were studied. The operative technique is described.
  
  
  RESULTS
  With an average follow-up of 13 months, there was one recurrence. There were no wound infections. Testicular size was equal or larger than the contralateral testicle in all but two cases. All boys had an excellent cosmetic result.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The scrotal approach for inguinal hernia or hydrocele repair is a safe procedure without added morbidity and with excellent cosmetic results.
authors.affiliation: Consultant Paediatric Surgeon, Paediatric Surgical Unit, Fairyland, St. Luke's Hospital, Gwardamangia, Malta. slpd@maltanet.net
authors.forename: Ch
authors.initials: Ch
authors.lastname: Fearne
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Abela
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Aquilina
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D013505:Digestive System Surgical Procedures; D006552:Hernia, Inguinal / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012611:Scrotum / Q000601:surgery; D006848:Testicular Hydrocele / Q000601:surgery*