A hernia occurs when an organ pushes through an opening in the muscle or tissue that holds it in place. For example, the intestines may break through a weakened area in the abdominal wall.

Hernias are most common in the abdomen, but they can also appear in the upper thigh, belly button, and groin areas. Most hernias are not immediately life threatening, but they don’t go away on their own and can require surgery to prevent potentially dangerous complications.

During surgery to repair the hernia, the bulging tissue is pushed back in. Your abdominal wall is strengthened and supported with sutures (stitches), and sometimes mesh. This repair can be done with open or laparoscopic surgery. You and your surgeon can discuss which type of surgery is right for you.

What is a hernia in the abdomen?

A hernia occurs when an organ pushes through an opening in the muscle or tissue that holds it in place. For example, the intestines may break through a weakened area in the abdominal wall. Hernias are most common in the abdomen, but they can also appear in the upper thigh, belly button, and groin areas.

How do you remove a hernia?

Open surgery. Your doctor makes an incision on the same side as the hernia, at an angle just above the crease where the abdomen meets the thigh. This can be done with local epidural or general anesthesia. Intestine or other tissue inside the hernia sac is placed back into the abdominal cavity.

Are hernias dangerous?

If the contents coming out through the hernia never flattens out and is stuck, then you have what is know as NON REDUCIBLE HERNIA – This case is often painful and may also indicate that part of the intestine is very tightly trapped – What is called as STRANGULATED HERNIA – Which is DANGEROUS AND MAY BECOME LIFE THREATENING.

Can you get a hernia in your groin?

The symptoms of an inguinal hernia include a bulge in the groin area and pain, pressure, or aching at the bulge, especially when lifting, bending, or coughing. These symptoms usually subside during rest. Men may also have swelling around the testicles.