This is common in infants and children. There is a ‘gap’ in the midline between the two rectus abdominus muscles. This is evident as a sausage shaped swelling between the xiphisternum and umbilicus. It is more obvious when the child tenses the abdominal musculature. This is a benign finding or normal variant and is not a true hernia of the abdominal wall. This may become less obvious as the child gets older, the abdominal wall strengthens and the ‘gap’ naturally reduces in size.
Simple reassurance is all that is required. We would not expect any effect on activity or any symptoms associated with divarication of the recti
Ultrasound scan is NOT required.
FM, LS, JB Sept 22
Who not to refer:
Please do not refer any child with divarication of the recti as it is a benign finding, does not affect physical activity and there is no surgical procedure recommended for this condition in children.
Options for Management in Primary Care
- Simple reassurance is all that is required. We would not expect any effect on activity or any symptoms associated with divarication of the recti
- Ultrasound scan is NOT required.
