Incisional / Ventral Hernia

A weakness in the abdominal muscle can allow tissues of the abdomen to protrude through it. This is known as an incisional hernia. It will look like a bulge under the skin and it can either be tender or painful when you touch it. The weakness in the muscle is caused by prior abdominal surgery. In mild cases, only the lining of the cavity will push through but in more severe case, parts of the organs themselves can move through the hole.

An incisional hernia is most common in obese and pregnant patients. Multiple abdominal surgeries can increase the risk as well. If a patient who’s had surgery returns to their normal activities before the incision can heal or who has gained significant weight after abdominal surgery, an incisional hernia can form While they can appear years after surgery, they are most likely to occur within three to six months of surgery.

If an incisional hernia develops, you may not notice it until you do something that increases pressure in the abdomen. This can be a heavy cough or sneeze, lifting a heavy object or pushing hard to have a bowel movement.

Because the hernia is usually visible, it is fairly straightforward for doctors at Celebration Colorectal to diagnose. A closer examination and additional testing will help determine the type and extent of the hernia so that a course of treatment can be determined.

If you're interested in learning more about incisional hernia surgery and treatment options, please make an appointment with a Celebration Colorectal doctor.