Incisional Hernia
In an incisional hernia, the intestine pushes through the abdominal wall at the site of previous abdominal surgery. This type is most common in elderly or overweight people who are inactive after abdominal surgery.
Femoral Hernia
A femoral hernia occurs when the intestine enters the canal carrying the femoral artery into the upper thigh. Femoral hernias are most common in women, especially those who are pregnant or obese.
Umbilical Hernia
In an umbilical hernia, part of the small intestine passes through the abdominal wall near the navel. Common in newborns, it also commonly afflicts obese women or those who have had many children.
What causes Hernias?
Ultimately, all hernias are caused by a combination of pressure and an opening or weakness of muscle or fascia; the pressure pushes an organ or tissue through the opening or weak spot. Sometimes the muscle weakness is present at birth; more often, it occurs later in life. Anything that causes an increase in pressure in the abdomen can cause a hernia, including:
• Lifting heavy objects without stabilizing the abdominal muscles
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Persistent coughing or sneezing
In addition, obesity, poor nutrition, and smoking, can all weaken muscles and make hernias more likely.
Hernia Treatment
There is only one treatment for hernias and that is a surgical repair. Treatment may include the surgical insertion of mesh to close and reinforce the weakened muscle section. Some hernias can also be repaired using laparoscopic surgery, in which a slender instrument known as a laparoscope is inserted to repair the hernia internally. This eliminates the need for large abdominal incisions. Dr. Richards also repairs hernias using the Da Vinci robotic system. See our Da Vinci web page for more information.
