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Hernia – Inguinal, Incisional, Femoral & Umbilical

What is a hernia?

An inguinal or femoral hernia is a weakness or defect on the abdominal wall in the groin area. Internal organs may push through the weakness or defect causing discomfort, pain and a noticeable bulge. The anatomy of a hernia can be compared to a bulge in the inner tube of a tyre. When the tyre is damaged, the inner tube pushes and bulges through the opening of the tyre. Similarly, when a hernia occurs, the inner layer of the abdominal wall may push against and through the abdominal wall defect. In some cases, a hernia may cause only slight discomfort whereas in other cases, a hernia may block digestion and may cause severe pain requiring immediate medical attention.

Some hernias may be acquired hernias, while others are caused by a congenital weakness, which means a weakness that you can be born with.

  • Acquired hernias may be caused by lifting heaving objects, extreme weight gain or persistent coughing.
  • An incisional hernia occurs at the site of a previous surgical incision.
  • An umbilical hernia occurs at the navel.
  • An indirect inguinal hernia occurs in the groin at the internal ring.
  • A direct inguinal hernia occurs in the groin near the internal ring.
  • A femoral hernia occurs just below the groin.
  • An epigastric hernia occurs in the upper abdomen at the midline. 

How is it treated?

Whether your hernia is a congenital or acquired, surgery is the only way to repair your hernia. Two types of hernia repair surgery: 

  • Open surgery is performed by cutting through the abdominal wall to reach the hernia defect. The incision can range from 7cm to 15cm in length.
  • In keyhole hernia repair, a laparoscope is used. Three small incisions are made to allow the doctor to see through a laparoscope whilst they operate inside the body. These incisions are made between the groin and navel and can range from 0.6cm to 1.3cm, minimising post-operative discomfort and scarring prompting fast healing and allowing for a quicker return to normal activities.

Albury

The Gardens Medical Centre
Level 4, 470 Wodonga Place
Albury NSW 2640

02 6067 2287     View Map