INGUINAL-HERNIA IN EXTREMELY PRETERM INFANTS

The prevalence of inguinal hernia during primary hospitalization was d etermined in 250 infants with gestational age 24-29 weeks. Fourteen pe r cent developed hernia, with prevalence significantly higher in boys than girls. Infants with respiratory distress syndrome acid those requ iring prolonged mechanical ventilation were significantly predisposed to the development of hernia. Male infants, especially those who requi red prolonged ventilatory assistance, were at greatest risk. This info rmation may be used when counselling parents regarding complications o f very preterm infants.