Overview
Laparoscopic Ventral Hernia Repair is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed to repair a ventral hernia. It involves making small incisions in the abdomen and inserting a laparoscope and specialized instruments to reinforce the weakened abdominal wall and close the hernia defect.
Symptoms
Ventral hernias may cause a noticeable bulge or protrusion in the abdominal area. The bulge may become more prominent when standing, coughing, or straining. Some individuals may experience discomfort, pain, or a sense of pressure at the hernia site.
Less Severe Symptoms
In the early stages, a ventral hernia may cause only mild discomfort or a small bulge that can be easily pushed back into the abdomen. However, it’s essential to monitor the condition closely and seek medical attention for proper evaluation and treatment.
More Severe Symptoms
If the ventral hernia becomes incarcerated or strangulated, severe pain, nausea, vomiting, and an inability to push the bulge back into the abdomen may occur. These symptoms indicate a medical emergency and require immediate attention.
When to See a Doctor
If you notice a bulge in your abdominal area, experience discomfort or pain at the hernia site, or if the hernia becomes tender, swollen, or unable to be pushed back in, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and treatment.
Causes
Ventral hernias develop when there is a weakness or a gap in the abdominal wall, allowing abdominal tissues or organs to protrude through. Common causes include surgical incisions that haven’t fully healed, previous abdominal surgeries, pregnancy, obesity, and conditions that increase abdominal pressure, such as chronic coughing or heavy lifting.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for ventral hernias include obesity, pregnancy, multiple previous abdominal surgeries, poor wound healing, smoking, a family history of hernias, and medical conditions such as connective tissue disorders that weaken the abdominal wall.
Complications
If left untreated, ventral hernias can lead to complications such as bowel obstruction, strangulation (where the blood supply to the herniated tissues is cut off), infection, and tissue death.
Prevention
While ventral hernias cannot always be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk or delay their development. These include maintaining a healthy weight, practicing proper lifting techniques, quitting smoking, managing chronic conditions that increase abdominal pressure, and taking precautions to support wound healing after abdominal surgery.
