Ventral Hernia Treatment
When intestines or tissue inside the abdominal cavity push through the abdominal wall muscles, it is called a ventral hernia. Two of the most common ventral hernias are the umbilical and epigastric hernias, which occur in the mid and upper abdomen. Danny Shouhed, M.D. is a well-respected and board certified gastrointestinal surgeon that offers ventral hernia treatment through his medical clinic in Los Angeles.
Symptoms and Causes of Umbilical and Epigastric Hernias
Ventral or abdominal hernias can occur whenever there is a weak area in the abdominal wall that allows tissue to protrude through the opening. Umbilical hernias occur where the umbilical cord exits the body (naval), and epigastric hernias occur just below the sternum in the upper abdomen. Both umbilical and epigastric hernias commonly are diagnosed in infants or small children but can occur at any age. Weakness at the naval or near the diaphragm can cause ventral hernias. Symptoms can include:
- A visible bulge or protrusion in the abdomen
- Bloating
- Constipationv
- Pain in abdomen when coughing, lifting or sneezing
Some ventral hernias in small children will repair on their own as the abdominal wall develops in the first few years. However, when a ventral hernia is diagnosed in older children, teens or adults, it almost always will need repair. Ventral hernias can cause serious complications and health risks if the intestines or tissue becomes trapped. Ventral hernia treatment involves surgical repair of the abdominal wall with either open or laparoscopic surgery.
Danny Shouhed, M.D. specializes in minimally-invasive and robotic abdominal surgery. His extreme attention to detail has made him one of the top gastrointestinal surgeons in the country. If you have symptoms of a ventral hernia, treatment is available through our medical clinic in Los Angeles. Contact our office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Shouhed.