What Is a Hernia and How Is One Repaired?

By rjoachim | September 11, 2023

he most common types of abdominal hernias are:

  • Inguinal hernia: This is the most common type of hernia. It occurs when a loop of intestine pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall near the groin.Opens in a new windowteachmeanatomy.infoInguinal hernia anatomy diagram
  • Femoral hernia: This type of hernia occurs when a loop of intestine pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall below the groin.Opens in a new windowwww.lecturio.comFemoral hernia anatomy diagram
  • Hiatal hernia: This type of hernia occurs when part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen.Opens in a new windowmedlineplus.govHiatal hernia anatomy diagram
  • Umbilical hernia: This type of hernia occurs when a loop of intestine pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall near the belly button.Opens in a new windowdrdavidford.comUmbilical hernia anatomy diagram

Hernias can be caused by a number of factors, including:

  • Weak or damaged muscles
  • Increased pressure in the abdomen, such as from lifting heavy objects or pregnancy
  • Age
  • Obesity
  • Coughing or straining
  • Some congenital conditions

Hernias are not always painful, but they can cause discomfort, especially when you cough, sneeze, or lift heavy objects. Some hernias can also become strangulated, which means that the blood supply to the herniated tissue is cut off. Strangulated hernias are a medical emergency and require immediate surgery.

The only way to repair a hernia is through surgery. There are two main types of hernia repair surgery:

  • Open surgery: This is the traditional type of hernia repair surgery. The surgeon makes a cut in the skin over the hernia and then repairs the weak spot in the muscle or tissue.
  • Laparoscopic surgery: This is a minimally invasive type of surgery. The surgeon makes several small incisions in the abdomen and inserts a camera and surgical tools through the incisions. The surgeon then repairs the weak spot in the muscle or tissue using stitches or a mesh patch.

The type of surgery that is best for you will depend on the size and location of the hernia, your overall health, and your preferences.

After surgery, you will need to rest and avoid strenuous activity for a few weeks. You will also need to take antibiotics to prevent infection.

Most hernias can be repaired successfully with surgery. The risk of complications is low, but it can include infection, bleeding, and recurrence of the hernia.

If you have a hernia, talk to your doctor about the best treatment options for you.

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