Hernia Repair

At CHI Health, we understand that a hernia can be a source of discomfort and concern. Our dedicated team of surgical specialists is committed to providing advanced, personalized care for all types of hernias, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.

What is a hernia?

A hernia results from a weakness or opening in a muscle in the abdomen or groin. This can result in a bulge as organs push through the hernia. Sometimes the bulge is always present and other times it may come and go. Hernias occur for a variety of reasons including injuries or surgeries, weakening of muscle as we get older, and some hernias are present at birth.

What are the different types of hernias?

• Inguinal Hernia - The most common type of hernia. These hernias are located in the groin and are more common in men.
• Femoral Hernia - Another type of groin hernia that can result in a bulge a little lower than an inguinal hernia.
• Hiatal Hernia - A type of hernia of the diaphragm (breathing muscle) which can happen over time and be related to reflux.
• Diaphragm Hernia - Other hernias in the diaphragm (breathing muscle) can be from birth defects or traumatic injuries.
• Incisional Hernia - These hernias happen after an operation. They are hernias at previous sites of incisions from open or minimally invasive surgery procedures.
• Umbilical Hernia - These are belly button hernias. The belly button is a naturally weak portion of the abdominal wall muscles and is prone to hernias.
• Ventral Hernia - This is a broad group of hernias that include any portion of the abdominal wall muscle.
• Diastasis Recti - This is not a hernia but a separation of the ab muscles that can often look like a hernia.

Does my hernia need to be fixed?

Common hernia symptoms include a bulge at the site of the hernia that can be uncomfortable or painful. The bulge can come and go in some patients depending on the body’s position or a certain activity but other times, the hernia may always have a bulge no matter what. Hernias that cause occasional pain or discomfort are typically not serious, but we recommend consultation with one of our expert surgeons to review options for managing your symptoms and to talk about possible surgical repair.

Less common but sometimes worrying symptoms include a bulge that does not go away or cannot be pushed back in completely, constant or worsening pain, or symptoms of a bowel blockage including nausea, vomiting, inability to eat or drink, bloating, and severe constipation. For these symptoms, we recommend seeking medical attention right away.

How are hernias diagnosed?

Hernias are often diagnosed with a physical exam by your doctor or surgeon. Some hernias, however, may need additional studies to make the right diagnosis including ultrasound and CT scan.

How are hernias fixed?

The type of surgery for repairing a hernia can vary depending on the location of the hernia. At CHI Health, our surgeons offer a variety of approaches to fix hernias including:

• Open surgery - Typically an incision is made over the hernia and the weakness or opening is closed with sutures and possibly mesh to reinforce the repair
• Laparoscopic surgery - This type of minimally invasive surgery using small incisions and a long camera and instruments to see inside the abdomen to repair hernias from the inside with sutures and possibly mesh.
• Robotic-assisted surgery - This is another type of minimally invasive surgery that uses a surgical robot controlled by the surgeon. It also uses small incisions through which robotic instruments repair the hernia with sutures and possibly mesh.

If you or a loved one think you may have a hernia, CHI Health’s hernia experts are here to help. Call to schedule a consultation.