The term hernia commonly refers to a weakness in the muscular wall of the abdomen which allow the protrusion of abdominal viscera (bowels). This usually manifest as the presence of a
lump, which causes discomfort and impairment in the ability to carry out normal activities.
Hernia can become stuck (incarcerated) and this may lead to an life-threatening emergency situation where trapped bowel loses its blood supply (strangulation)
Hernias are named in relation to the anatomical location of the defect.
Inguinal and femoral hernia occur in the groin, of either side.Umbilical and Paraumbilical
hernia occur in and around the belly button. Epigastric (ventral) hernia front of the abdomen.
Incisional hernia occur after previous abdominal and recurrent hernia is the term used to describe the re-appearance of a hernia at the site of a previous repair. name given to any kind of hernia that has re-appeared, despite having been previously repaired surgically.
Keyhole surgery is now an increasingly popular alternative to traditional open hernia repair.
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