Umbilical Hernia Surgery

Celebrities who have suffered from Hernia

Amitabh Bachchan

Dwayne Johnson

Denise Richards

Amazing Facts About Umbilical Hernia

• Common Occurrence: Umbilical hernias are one of the most common types of hernias, especially in infants and young children. They occur when the abdominal wall near the belly button (umbilicus) weakens, allowing abdominal contents to protrude through the weakened area. (Source)

• Infantile Spontaneous Closure: In many cases, umbilical hernias in infants tend to close on their own without the need for surgery. This is because the abdominal muscles naturally strengthen and the hernia resolves as the child grows. However, if the hernia persists beyond the age of 4 or 5, medical intervention may be necessary. (Source)

• Common in Women: Umbilical hernias are more common in women, particularly during or after pregnancy. The increased pressure on the abdominal wall during pregnancy can lead to the development of an umbilical hernia. In most cases, these hernias resolve on their own after childbirth. (Source)

4 Reasons for Early Treatment of Umbilical Hernia

1. Prevention of Complications: While most umbilical hernias are harmless and do not cause any discomfort, there is a risk of complications such as incarceration and strangulation. These occur when a part of the intestine becomes trapped or twisted within the hernia, leading to restricted blood flow and potential tissue damage. Prompt treatment can prevent these complications from occurring.
2. Pain Relief and Discomfort: Some individuals with umbilical hernias may experience pain or discomfort, especially when the hernia becomes larger or gets trapped. Early treatment can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with the hernia, improving the individual’s quality of life.
3. Cosmetic Concerns: For many people, the appearance of an umbilical hernia can be a source of self-consciousness or embarrassment. Early treatment can help address the cosmetic concerns associated with the hernia, allowing individuals to feel more confident and comfortable in their appearance.
4. Facilitation of Physical Activity: In some cases, umbilical hernias can restrict physical activities, especially in children or individuals involved in sports or physically demanding jobs. Early treatment can restore the normal function of the abdominal muscles and allow individuals to engage in their desired activities without restrictions.

Complications of Untreated Umbilical Hernia

1. Incarceration: If an umbilical hernia is left untreated, there is a risk of the hernia becoming incarcerated, meaning that the contents of the hernia become trapped and unable to be pushed back into the abdominal cavity. This can lead to severe pain, discomfort, and potentially life-threatening complications.
2. Strangulation: In some cases, an untreated umbilical hernia can progress to strangulation, where the blood supply to the hernia contents is cut off. Strangulation can cause severe pain, tissue damage, and infection. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate surgical intervention.
3. Peritonitis: If the hernia contents become trapped and eventually rupture, it can lead to peritonitis, which is inflammation and infection of the lining of the abdominal cavity. Peritonitis is a serious condition that requires urgent medical attention and can be life-threatening if left untreated.
4. Cosmetic concerns: Although not a life-threatening complication, an untreated umbilical hernia can cause cosmetic concerns, particularly in cases where the hernia becomes larger or more visible. This can lead to self-consciousness and impact a person’s body image and self-esteem.

What is Umbilical Hernia?

Risk Factors to develop Umbilical Hernia

1. Age: Umbilical hernias are more common in infants and young children. Their abdominal muscles may not have fully developed, making them more prone to hernias. In adults, the risk of umbilical hernia increases with age, as the abdominal muscles weaken over time.
2. Obesity: Excess weight and obesity can put increased pressure on the abdominal muscles, making them more susceptible to hernias.
3. Pregnancy: The increased pressure on the abdomen during pregnancy can weaken the abdominal muscles and contribute to the development of umbilical hernias.
4. Chronic cough or sneezing: Conditions that cause persistent coughing or sneezing, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or allergies, can strain the abdominal muscles and increase the risk of developing a hernia.
5. Previous abdominal surgery: Scars from previous abdominal surgeries can weaken the abdominal muscles and increase the likelihood of developing an umbilical hernia near the incision site.
6. Ascites: Ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, often associated with liver disease. The increased pressure from the fluid can contribute to the development of hernias.
7. Family history: There may be a genetic predisposition to developing umbilical hernias. If a close family member has had an umbilical hernia, the risk may be higher.

Symptoms of Umbilical Hernia

• A bulge or swelling near the navel, especially when coughing or straining, 
• Discomfort or pain at the site of the hernia, and 
• An enlarged belly button. 

Diagnosis of Umbilical Hernia

1. Medical History: The doctor will ask about the patient’s medical history, including any symptoms experienced and any previous hernias or surgeries.
2. Physical Examination: The doctor will visually inspect the belly button area and may gently press on the abdomen to feel for any bulging or protrusion. The examination helps determine the size, location, and characteristics of the hernia.
3. Observation of Symptoms: The doctor will evaluate any symptoms associated with the hernia, such as pain, discomfort, or changes in appearance or size.

1. Imaging Tests: In certain cases, imaging tests such as ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scan may be ordered to provide a detailed view of the hernia and surrounding structures. These tests can help determine the size and location of the hernia and assess any complications or abnormalities.
2. Intra-abdominal Pressure Measurements: In some cases, especially if the hernia is large or there are concerns about increased pressure within the abdomen, intra-abdominal pressure measurements may be performed to evaluate the severity of the hernia and guide treatment decisions.

Treatment of Umbilical Hernia

Laparoscopic Umbilical Hernia Surgery

Benefits of Laparoscopic Umbilical Hernia Surgery

1. Minimally invasive: Laparoscopic surgery involves smaller incisions, resulting in less scarring and reduced postoperative pain.
2. Faster recovery: Patients who undergo laparoscopic surgery for umbilical hernias generally experience a quicker recovery time compared to open surgery.
3. Reduced risk of complications: Laparoscopic procedures have a lower risk of infection, wound complications, and hernia recurrence compared to open surgery.
4. Improved cosmetic outcome: The smaller incisions used in laparoscopic surgery result in less visible scarring and better cosmetic results.

Preparation for Umbilical Hernia Surgery

1. Consultation with a Surgeon: The first step is to schedule a consultation with a surgeon who specializes in hernia repair. During this consultation, the surgeon will evaluate the hernia, review your medical history, and discuss the surgical options available to you.
2. Medical Evaluation: Prior to the surgery, your surgeon may request certain medical evaluations to assess your overall health. This may include blood tests, imaging studies (such as an ultrasound or CT scan), and an electrocardiogram (ECG) to evaluate your heart function.
3. Medication Review: It is important to inform your surgeon about any medications you are currently taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements. Your surgeon may provide specific instructions regarding which medications to continue or discontinue before the surgery.
4. Fasting: You will be instructed to fast for a certain period of time before the surgery. This is typically about 8 hours for solid food and 2 hours for clear liquids. Fasting helps to minimize the risk of complications during the procedure.
5. Anesthesia Consultation: If general anesthesia or sedation will be used during the surgery, you may need to schedule a separate consultation with an anesthesiologist. The anesthesiologist will review your medical history and discuss the anesthesia options available to you.
6. Lifestyle Adjustments: Your surgeon may recommend certain lifestyle adjustments leading up to the surgery. This may include quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in regular physical activity to optimize your overall health and reduce the risk of complications.
7. Preoperative Instructions: Your surgeon will provide you with specific preoperative instructions to follow. This may include guidelines on when to stop eating and drinking before the surgery, instructions on showering with antibacterial soap, and information about any required bowel preparation.

Anaesthesia for Umbilical Hernia Surgery

1. General Anesthesia: In general anesthesia, the patient is completely unconscious and unaware during the surgery. It is administered by an anesthesiologist through intravenous medications and inhaled gases. General anesthesia allows for complete relaxation of the patient’s muscles, ensuring optimal surgical conditions. The patient is closely monitored throughout the procedure to maintain vital signs and ensure safety.
2. Local Anesthesia with Sedation: In some cases, hernia surgery may be performed under local anesthesia with the addition of sedation. Local anesthesia involves injecting a numbing medication into the surgical area to block pain sensation. Sedation is administered through intravenous medications to help the patient relax and remain comfortable during the procedure. With this type of anesthesia, the patient is usually awake but feels drowsy and relaxed.

Recovery after Umbilical Hernia Surgery

1. Hospital Stay: Most umbilical hernia surgeries are performed as outpatient procedures, meaning you can usually go home on the same day. However, in some cases, an overnight hospital stay may be necessary, especially if there are any complications or if the surgery was extensive.
2. Pain Management: It is common to experience some pain or discomfort at the incision site after surgery. Your doctor will prescribe pain medications to help manage any post-operative pain. Take the medications as instructed and report any severe or worsening pain to your healthcare provider.
3. Incision Care: Proper care of the surgical incision is important for preventing infection and promoting healing. Keep the incision area clean and dry, following your surgeon’s instructions. Avoid soaking in baths or swimming until your healthcare provider gives you the green light. You may need to change the dressing regularly, and it’s important to follow any specific wound care instructions provided.
4. Physical Activity: During the initial recovery period, it’s important to limit physical activity and avoid strenuous activities that may strain the abdominal muscles. Your surgeon will provide guidance on when you can resume regular activities and exercise. Gentle movements and light walking are usually encouraged to promote blood circulation and prevent blood clots. However, avoid heavy lifting and intense workouts until cleared by your healthcare provider.
5. Diet and Nutrition: Follow any dietary instructions provided by your surgeon or dietitian. It is common to start with a liquid or soft diet initially and gradually transition back to a regular diet as tolerated. Stay hydrated and consume fiber-rich foods to prevent constipation, which can be a common side effect of surgery and pain medications.
6. Follow-up Appointments: It is important to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon. These visits allow your surgeon to monitor your healing progress, remove any stitches or staples if necessary, and address any concerns or complications that may arise.
7. Signs of Complications: Be aware of any signs or symptoms that may indicate complications, such as excessive bleeding, severe pain, redness, swelling, pus or discharge from the incision site, fever, or difficulty passing urine or stools. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Risks and side effects of Umbilical Hernia Surgery

1. Risk of complications: Although laparoscopic surgery is generally safe, there is a small risk of complications such as infection, bleeding, or injury to surrounding tissues.
2. Recurrence of the hernia: While laparoscopic surgery has a low recurrence rate, there is still a possibility of the hernia recurring in some cases.
3. Postoperative discomfort: Some patients may experience mild discomfort or bloating after the surgery, which can typically be managed with pain medication and a proper recovery plan.