ABNORMALITIES OF EXTERNAL GENITALIA AND GROIN HERNIAS IN THE CITY OF KARAK IN THE SOUTH OF JORDAN

The aim of this prospective study was to find out the incidence of groin hernias and external genitalia abnormalities in children in the City of Karak at the south of Jordan for referral and early treatment, as well as to educate the population about the risk and complication of these abnormalities. A total of 2 038 male children aged 6-12 years, primary school attendants, underwent careful clinical examination of groin, penis and scrotum. Abnormal findings were detected in 381 male children (18,7%). The abnormalities were as follows: indirect inguinal hernia in 280 children, undecided testicles in 44 children, retractile testicles in 26, hypospadias in 15, varicocele in 10, hydrocele in five children. Herniotomy was detected in 66 with 4 cases failures, orchidopexy in five children with two failures, hypospadia in one child who failed. No one with hydrocele or varicocele underwent surgery. We conclude that indirect inguinal hernia is common in children. Undescended testicles are not uncommon. The majority of children with abnormalities are late for treatment. Failure rate of treatment is high. Education of population is needed to improve the outcome. Acta Medica Medianae 2010;49(4):5-9.