Hernias

Hernias are extremely common medical conditions that occur when part of an organ (usually the intestines) sticks through a weak point or tear in the thin muscular wall that holds the abdominal organs in place. The weakness of this area can be tied to pregnancy, age, drastic weight loss, obesity, prior surgery, genetics or possibly heavy lifting. The majority of hernias are inguinal or femoral hernias that appear in the groin area, umbilical hernias that form just under the belly button, and hernias that arise at an old incision site (incisional hernias). Hernias will not resolve themselves without surgery, which can be performed via either an “open” method or, more commonly today, a minimally invasive laparoscopic approach in which a synthetic mesh material can be applied at the area of weakness. Prompt medical evaluation is recommended for those suffering from a hernia in order to safeguard against possible severe complications such as intestinal strangulation.