What is a hernia of the abdomen and where does it come from?

An abdominal hernia is, in simple terms, an opening through which the intestine from the abdominal cavity penetrates through the abdominal wall to the outside. A hernia of the abdomen can theoretically occur in any part of the abdominal wall, but most often it occurs in the so-called places of presentation, i.e. in places of natural weakening of the abdominal wall, for example in the umbilical region, along the midline – mainly in the abdominal area. and the groin. Abdominal hernias can also form in places where surgical intervention was previously performed, then we are talking about the hernias in the scar. There are many factors that lead to a hernia of the abdomen. Congenital predisposition consists of weaker ligament formation, obesity due to weakening of the abdominal wall, physical exertion, and all factors that increase pressure in the abdominal cavity. As a rule, these are constipation, cough, prostate diseases in men, which force them to push when urinating,

How does a hernia manifest itself, what causes and what threatens?

Clinically, a hernia of the abdomen is manifested by a protrusion of the abdominal wall, which can only be transient (the hernia is reversible) or permanent (the so-called acute hernia).

In addition to this protrusion, a hernia can hurt, especially with physical exertion. Due to the fact that part of the intestine, most often the intestine, bends into a hernia, a violation of the function of this intestine may occur. When the opening in the abdominal wall is narrow, it can cause intestinal depression and cause narrowing of the intestine, which can manifest itself as transient constipation, bloating hernia pain.

A specific event is hernia occlusion. This is a sudden event caused by the entrails getting stuck in a hernia. At the same time, the nutrition of the pinched intestine suffers, since the blood vessels supplying the intestine with blood are suppressed or closed. With the narrowing of the intestine, it becomes impassable. A hidden hernia is significantly painful, and stiff, it can not even be pressed into the stomach in a lying position. Vomiting, abdominal cramps or gas, and stool may not be present. This is an acute condition that requires immediate surgical intervention. If these symptoms or any suspicions appear, you should immediately seek medical help.

I have a hernia and now what?

Due to this risk, as well as due to the fact that once a hernia has developed, it will not disappear, but only increases with time, it is better to correct the hernia of the abdomen proactively (planned). The final solution of the hernia will be provided only by surgical treatment (hernia surgery), a conservative procedure (hernia belt), intended only for patients for whom the operation will be too risky (very old age, serious concomitant diseases, etc.)

How does hernia surgery work?

Hernia surgeries are among the most common, a wide range of hernia surgeries are performed, from classical to laparoscopic, using the most modern reinforcing materials (mesh). All operations require an internal preoperative examination to assess operational risk. The operation is performed under general anesthesia.