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A hernia is due to a "hole" in the abdominal wall. The abdominal
wall is likened to a tire and the abdominal contents thought of as the inner tube. A "blowout" in the tire wall will cause
the inner tube to bulge out of the tire hole. A hernia is very much the same thing. Patients may notice a bulge on one side
of the groin or perhaps a protrusion from the bellybutton. These may feel "squishy". They may or may not be painful. You
may have a hernia.
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An inguinal hernia is the most common hernia I see. It is named
by its location in the groin. Symptoms are pain, a dull ache, or a "dragging" sensation. Signs are that of a bulge in the
groin. It is usually soft and feels like a "bubble." It can usually be placed back or "reduced" and will often disappear.
Coughing or straining will bring the hernia back out. If the buge is painful seek medical care immediately. This indicates
that the abdominal contents are "stuck" and may necessitate immediate surgery. Inguinal hernias can sometimes occur on both
sides at the same time. This is termed "bilateral inguinal hernias"
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The other types of hernias are similar in composition but are
in different locations. An incisional hernia results from a previous surgical incision. All have similar signs and symptoms.
Again an "incarcerated" hernia or a hernia that is extremely painful and will not flatten back into the abdomen is a surgical
emergency. If this is the case go to the emergency room or conatact your doctor immediately.
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A hernia can be repaired "open" or "laparoscopic." Each has
its pros and cons. An open procedure is through a traditional incision. Laparoscopic procedures are done through small incisions
and essentially look at the "hole" and perform the repair from the "inside" of the abdomen. I look at each patient's repair
individually, and both repairs have been shown to have excellent results. Recovery can be as quick as a few days depending
on the repair. Pain is usually minimal.
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