Hernias

What is a hernia?

A hernia occurs when an internal organ or other tissue protrudes out through the surrounding wall of muscle or tissue. Hernias most commonly occur in the abdominal cavity. 

There are different types of hernias:

Inguinal hernia

In women, the inguinal canal contains the round ligament that supports the womb. With an inguinal hernia, part of the intestine or fatty tissue pokes into the groin area at the top of the inner thigh.

Umbilical hernia

An umbilical hernia happens when part of the intestine or fatty tissue pushes through the abdomen near the navel.

Ventral hernias

Ventral hernias occur when intestines or other abdominal tissue pushes out through a gap in the abdominal wall muscles.

Hiatal hernia

Hiatal hernias occur when part of your stomach pushes through an opening in your diaphragm up into your chest cavity.

Postoperative hernia

Also called an incisional hernia, this is a tissue bulging out from an abdominal surgical scar that is healing after surgery.

What causes a hernia?

Some hernias are caused by weakened muscles that might have been present from birth.

Or they may result from muscle strain and weakening caused by aging, physical exertion, frequent coughing, or pregnancy.

If you have a hernia, you might notice increased pain at the site of the bulge or lump, a dull aching sensation, and pain when lifting. Some hernias don’t have bulges on the outside of the body, so you should also be aware of symptoms like difficulty swallowing, indigestion, heartburn, and chest pain.

How is a hernia treated?

Hernias don’t usually improve on their own. Surgery is often the best and only way to repair a hernia.

Dr. Baker or Dr. Marinescu might also suggest healthy lifestyle changes or medications to improve your health and comfort.

Hernia surgery can be performed in different ways. An open surgery is the traditional method where your surgeon makes an incision at the location of the hernia and carefully sets the protruding tissue back in place or removes the hernia sac. The weakened muscle wall is stitched back together. In some instances, Dr. Baker or Dr. Marinescu might implant some type of mesh to give you extra support in the area.

OBGYN CARE also provides minimally invasive hernia surgery involving da Vinci® robot-assisted surgical technology. With the da Vinci, you can expect smaller incisions, special surgical tools and enhanced precision, and a faster and smoother recovery.

Hernia surgery is usually an outpatient procedure. General, spinal, or local anesthesia is necessary depending on the size, type, and location of your hernia, and other factors.

If you have questions or concerns about a hernia, visit OBGYN CARE or schedule online today.