An inguinal hernia is the most common type of hernia and occurs in the lower abdomen, specifically in the groin area. It happens when part of the intestine or fatty tissue pushes through a weakness in the abdominal wall or the inguinal canal, which is a passageway for structures in the groin.
Causes and Risk Factors
Symptoms
Treatment
Surgery is often necessary to repair an inguinal hernia, particularly if it causes pain or becomes incarcerated (unable to be pushed back) or strangulated (cutting off blood supply). Surgery options include:
In Australia, inguinal hernias are estimated to affect 1 in 4 men and 1 in 20 women over their lifetime.
A femoral hernia occurs when a portion of the intestine or fatty tissue pushes through a weakness in the femoral canal, which is located just below the inguinal ligament in the groin. Femoral hernias are less common but tend to occur more frequently in women, particularly those who are pregnant or overweight.
Causes and Risk Factors
Symptoms
Treatment
Femoral hernias often require surgical intervention due to the risk of becoming incarcerated or strangulated. The treatment options are similar to those for inguinal hernias:
An umbilical hernia occurs near the belly button, where the abdominal muscles are naturally weaker. It is common in infants but can also affect adults, particularly those who are overweight or have had multiple pregnancies.
Causes and Risk Factors
Symptoms
Treatment
Surgery is recommended for umbilical hernias, particularly in adults. The procedure involves pushing the hernia back into place and repairing the weak area of the abdominal wall. Options include:
An incisional hernia develops at the site of a previous abdominal surgery. The intestines or other tissues push through the weakened area of the abdominal wall where an incision was made.
Causes and Risk Factors
Symptoms
Treatment
Surgical repair is the main treatment, which may involve:
An epigastric hernia occurs between the belly button and the chest, in the area of the epigastric region. It happens when fatty tissue or part of the intestine pushes through a small hole in the abdominal wall.
Causes and Risk Factors
Symptoms
Treatment
Most epigastric hernias are treated with surgery, which can be done via:
A ventral hernia occurs in the abdominal wall, usually as a result of a weak spot or previous surgery. This type of hernia can develop in various locations across the abdomen.
Causes and Risk Factors
Symptoms
Treatment
Surgical repair is required for ventral hernias and may involve:
A spigelian hernia is a rare type of hernia that occurs along the edge of the rectus abdominis muscle, where the muscle and connective tissue meet. It is often overlooked because it is not as visible as other types of hernias.
Causes and Risk Factors
Symptoms
Treatment
Surgical intervention is usually required, with options including:
At Sydney Surgical Associates, we specialise in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of hernias. Our expert surgeons offer a range of minimally invasive options, ensuring quicker recovery times and minimal discomfort. We are committed to providing compassionate care tailored to your individual needs.
