Hernia and Minimally Invasive Surgery

Hernias happen when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscles or connective tissue that should hold it in place. Fixing hernias is important because they can lead to pain, organ damage, or even life-threatening complications. Here are five major types of hernias and why they matter:

• Groin Hernia (Inguinal and Femoral)

  
  

  • What it is: A groin hernia happens when tissue, like part of the intestine, bulges through a weak area in the lower abdominal wall near the groin.
    • Inguinal hernias are more common in men and occur above the groin crease.
    • Femoral hernias are less common, mostly affect women, and occur lower in the groin, near the upper thigh.
  • Why it matters: Groin hernias can grow larger and trap the intestine, cutting off its blood supply, a condition called strangulation that needs emergency surgery.

• Umbilical Hernia
  
  • What it is: This occurs around the belly button when tissue pokes through the abdominal muscles. It’s common in babies but can also affect adults.
  • Why it matters: In adults, umbilical hernias won’t heal on their own and can lead to pain or trapped intestines, requiring surgery to fix.

• Hiatal Hernia
  • What it is: This happens inside the body when part of the stomach pushes up into the chest through an opening in the diaphragm (the muscle that helps you breathe).
  • Why it matters: Hiatal hernias can cause acid reflux and heartburn, damaging the esophagus over time. Large ones can trap the stomach, leading to serious complications.

• Incisional Hernia
  
  • What it is: This occurs at the site of a previous surgery, where the wound didn’t heal strongly enough, allowing tissue to bulge through.
  • Why it matters: These hernias can grow larger and cause pain or strangulation of the intestines if left untreated.

• Internal Hernia
  • What it is: This happens when tissue, usually the intestine, pushes through an opening inside the abdominal cavity, such as near a natural gap in the body or a surgical site.
    
  • Why it matters: Internal hernias are dangerous because they can trap and block the intestines without visible signs like an external bulge. This can lead to a strangulation emergency.

Why Fix Hernias?

Hernias don’t heal on their own and usually get worse over time. If left untreated, they can lead to:

• Pain: The bulging tissue can press on nerves and muscles.
• Blockages: A hernia can trap part of the intestine, causing nausea, vomiting, and severe discomfort.
• Strangulation: When blood flow to the trapped tissue is cut off, it can lead to tissue death, which is life-threatening.

Surgery is often the best solution to repair hernias and prevent these complications. Early treatment improves recovery and prevents emergencies.

Meet with Dr. de Roulet to discuss your care

If you think you might have a hernia or are experiencing any symptoms, the first step is to schedule a consultation in clinic. During your visit, he will carefully listen to your concerns, review your medical history, and perform a physical exam. Depending on your symptoms, he may order tests like an ultrasound, CT scan, or other imaging to get a clearer picture of what’s happening.

Once all the information is gathered, he will sit down with you to explain the findings and discuss your options. If surgery is recommended, he will explain why it’s necessary and how it can help you feel better and prevent future problems. He will answer any questions and address your concerns to make sure you feel comfortable and confident moving forward.

It’s important to know that not all hernias require immediate surgery, and the decision will be made together, based on what’s best for your health and lifestyle. 

We are here to guide and support you every step of the way.