Abdominal wall hernias
The abdominal wall is composed of a complex arrangement of muscles and tendons. Pressure from inside the abdomen can sometimes lead to a weakness developing in the abdominal wall. Contents from inside the abdomen, such as fat, bowel or other organs, can push though these weak spots and cause a bulge. This is known as a hernia. If the contents of a hernia gets stuck in the opening of the abdominal wall (the weak spot), severe pain can result.
Hernias are common in three areas: each groin and the umbilicus ("belly-button"). Groin hernias are sometimes referred to as "inguinal" or "femoral" hernias, depending on where they originate, and hernias at the belly button are called "umbilical" hernias. Hernias can also occur along scars where previous surgery has been performed.
The aim of hernia surgery is to carefully identify the edge of the hernia, ensure that the contents of the hernia are healthy before pushing them back through the weak spot in the abdominal wall and closing the hole where the hernia has pushed through. This may involve securing a biologically-compatible synthetic mesh to reinforce the abdominal wall. Hernia surgery can sometimes be performed with a minimally invasive "keyhole" approach using a camera and very small incisions. Suren will be able to assess your hernia and advise you which is the appropriate option for you.