Hernia Specialist

What is a hernia?

A hernia occurs when tissue or an internal organ pushes through a weak area of muscle, usually in or around the abdomen. Anyone can experience a hernia, but they’re especially common in people who are overweight. 

Hernias aren’t always a problem, but when left untreated, they increase the risk of complications, like gastrointestinal obstructions.

What are the symptoms of a hernia?

Symptoms of a hernia include:

• A visible bulge or bump
• A bump that disappears when lying down
• Heartburn
• Difficulty swallowing
• Chest pain
• Pain and swelling

Some hernias don’t present any symptoms. Often, a routine physical exam discovers them.

What are the types of hernias?

There are several types of hernias, including:

Inguinal hernias

An inguinal hernia occurs when a piece of your intestine pushes through the abdominal wall and into the groin. Of all the types of hernias, inguinal hernias are the most common.

Abdominal wall hernias

An abdominal wall hernia occurs when there’s weakness within your abdominal muscles. Fat or your intestines can push through the muscle, causing pain and a noticeable bump.

Hiatal hernias

A hiatal hernia occurs when a piece of your stomach pushes through a weak portion of your diaphragm and into your chest. That results in chest pain, heartburn, and difficulty swallowing.

Incisional hernias

An incisional hernia occurs when a piece of tissue pushes through an incision from a previous surgery. These hernias can occur months or even years after the procedure.

How is a hernia diagnosed?

To diagnose a hernia, your Advanced Surgeons provider reviews your health history and asks about your symptoms. Next, they conduct a physical exam, checking for any bulges in your abdomen or groin.

If a physical exam doesn’t provide enough information, your provider might order a CT scan or an MRI. These diagnostic imaging procedures capture detailed images of the soft tissues beneath your skin.

How is a hernia treated?

The providers at Advanced Surgeons treat hernias using advanced surgical techniques. Hernia surgery can be a minimally invasive or open surgery.

Open surgery

During open surgery, your provider makes an incision, isolates the hernia, and removes the herniated tissue or pushes it back where it belongs. Then, they insert a piece of mesh to support your muscle wall, and then close the incision with stitches.

Minimally invasive surgery

During minimally invasive surgery, your provider makes a series of small incisions. They insert special tools into the incisions and inflate the cavity with gas. Your surgeon repairs the hernia, inserts a mesh piece to support your abdominal wall, and closes the incision.

If you’re concerned about a hernia, make an appointment at Advanced Surgeons. Book online or call the nearest office today.