Inguinal and scrotal problems in infants and children.

Early and accurate diagnosis will not only prevent the catastrophe of gangrenous bowel in infants and children with inguinal and femoral hernia, but in the case of hydrocele will also avoid unnecessary parental anxiety. An accurate diagnosis and knowledge of the natural history of inguinal conditions can avoid unnecessary referral to surgical consultants. Finally, an understanding of the surgical expectations, ie, orchiopexy for the undescended testis, will provide parents and patients with realistic expectations.