Objective To explore the value of laparoscopic high ligation of hernia sac plus median umbilical fold cover in the treatment of childhood inguinal hernia.Methods 140 pediatric patients with inguinal hernia were randomly assigned to receive laparoscopic high ligation of hernia sac and median umbilical fold cover ( 60 children,laparoscopy group ),or conventional open surgery ( 80 children,conventional surgery group ).The postoperative status and results of follow-up were compared between the two groups.Results There were significant differences in surgical duration and length of hospital stay between laparoscopy group and conventional surgery group ( [20.8 ± 6.5]min vs.[33.5 ± 10.6]min,P<0.01; ( 2.4 ± 1.5 )d vs.( 4.1.3 )d,P< 0.01 ).The incidence rates of scrotal edema,hernia recurrence,and metachronous hernia were significantly lower in laparoscopy group than in conventional surgery group ( P< 0.05 ).Conclusions Laparoscopic high ligation of hernia sac plus median umbilical fold cover is safe and feasible in the treatment of childhood inguinal hernia. Key words: Inguinal hernia; Laparoscope; Median umbilical fold; Children