Abdominal hernia occurs when the inner coating of the abdominal wall is pushed through the abdominal muscles by an organ or fatty tissue, thus forming an outpouching of the wall. This bulge may enclose intestine, fat or other tissue, and can either be reducible or non-reducible depending on how far it juts out and how firmly the abdominal muscles can hold it.

The intestine in the protuberance can die due to loss of blood supply and strangulation, which can cause excessive pain, may obstruct digestion and even trigger gangrene in the intestinal region. The only option in this case is emergency surgical repair.

Procedure information
In traditional hernia repair surgery, the doctor makes an incision around the hernia and moves it back into the abdomen. Then the abdominal wall is closed and reinforced. After this kind of procedure, the patient is often not required to stay in hospital overnight.

Another surgical option for the treatment of abdominal hernia is laparoscopy, in which the surgeon uses a fiber optic viewing tube to repair the hernia without having to make a large incision. Less recovery time is necessary after this technique than for traditional hernia repair surgery.

If the hernia causes slight symptoms and is reducible, a supportive elastic band (truss) that keeps the hernia inside the abdomen may be helpful, but cannot cure the ailment.

Recovery time
Recovery time depends on the type of surgical repair performed and the patient’s health. Usually, light activities can be resumed a couple of days after surgery. Patients are strongly recommended not to put any strain on the body within 6 to 8 weeks after surgery. Blood flow increase will be enhanced by undemanding exercise, such as walking, thus promoting the healing process. In general, the patient should avoid lifting; driving and sexual activities may also put strain the incision, and the patient should consult his doctor about their resumption.