Overview:
A hernia (or “rupture”) is a weakness or tear in the wall of the abdomen. It often results from years of wear and tear. Or, it may be due to a weakness in the abdominal wall that is present at birth. Most hernias aren’t life threatening. But most require care. A hernia will not heal on its own. Surgery is needed to repair the abdominal wall and if not treated, a hernia can get larger. There are different types of hernias. The type of hernia you have depends on its location. The most common types of hernias form in the groin or near the navel. They may also occur at the sight of a previous surgery. Hernias can form on both sides of the body (bilateral hernias). They can also recur in the same spot (recurrent hernias). Some people have more than one type at a time.
Symptoms may include but are not limited to:
- Visible bulge in the abdominal wall, especially with coughing or straining
- Hernia site pain or pressure
- Sharp abdominal pain and vomiting may mean that the intestine has slipped through the hernia sac and is strangulated. This is a surgical emergency and immediate treatment is needed.
Surgical Procedure:
The type of operation depends on the hernia size, location and recurrence:
- Open Hernia Repair
- Laparoscopic Hernia Repair
If you have an open hernia repair, the surgeon makes an incision near the hernia site. The bulging tissue is gently pushed back into the abdomen. Sutures, mesh, or a tissue flap is used to close the muscle. The site is closed using sutures, staples or surgical glue.
If you have a laparoscopic hernia repair, the surgeon will make several small punctures or incisions in the abdomen. Ports or trocars (hollow tubes) are inserted into the openings. Surgical tools are placed into the ports. The abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide gas to make it easier for the surgeon to see the hernia. Mesh is sutured, stapled or clipped to the muscle around the hernia site. The hernia site can also be sewn directly together.
Please contact us to schedule an appointment with our surgeons, Dr. Stone and Dr. Sufficool.
Krames staywell. (2014). Hernia Surgery: Surgery to repair your abdominal wall. USA: The StayWell Company, LLC.