Timing of Inguinal Hernia Repair in Premature Infants

This is a randomized clinical trial comparing early versus late repair in premature infants
with an inguinal hernia (IH) to determine which approach may be safer. Safety in this trial
is defined as the freedom from significant adverse events, a reduction in hospital days
during the study period, and normal neurodevelopmental testing at 2 years. Costs of each
treatment strategy are also important and are being evaluated.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Infant with estimated gestational age < 37 weeks, 0 days

- In a NICU at participating site

- Diagnosed with an IH per the pediatric surgery team

- Parents and providers willing to randomize the infant

Exclusion Criteria:

- Infant is undergoing another operative procedure and IH repair is planned as a
secondary procedure (e.g. fundoplication or G tube is planned, and IH repair is
considered a secondary procedure)

- Known major congenital anomaly that impact neurodevelopmental outcome or chromosomal
abnormality

- Family unable / unwilling to return for follow up and later IH repair; or likely
unable to monitor IH as outpatient