Hernia Types and Definition

Study Notes

A hernia is a protrusion or bulge that occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weakened area in the muscle or connective tissue that normally holds it in place.
There are several types of hernias, including:
- Inguinal hernia: occurs in the groin area, most common type
- Umbilical hernia: occurs near the belly button
- Hiatal hernia: occurs in the upper stomach
- Incisional hernia: occurs through a previous surgical incision
- Ventral hernia: occurs in the abdominal wall

Weakened muscles or connective tissue due to:
- Age
- Injury
- Surgery
- Obesity
- Coughing or straining
- Family history
Increased pressure within the abdominal cavity due to:
- Lifting heavy objects
- Coughing or sneezing
- Straining during bowel movements or urination

A visible bulge or lump in the affected area
Discomfort or pain in the affected area, especially with coughing, straining, or lifting
Feeling of heaviness or pressure in the abdomen
Discomfort or pain in the testicles (in the case of inguinal hernia)

Diagnosis is typically made through a physical examination and medical history
Imaging tests such as CT or MRI scans may be used to confirm the diagnosis
Treatment usually involves surgery to repair the hernia, either:
- Open hernia repair: a single incision is made to repair the hernia
- Laparoscopic hernia repair: several small incisions are made and a laparoscope is used to guide the repair
- Robotic hernia repair: a robotic system is used to assist with the repair

Strangulation: the hernia becomes trapped and its blood supply is cut off, leading to tissue death
Obstruction: the hernia blocks the intestine, leading to bowel obstruction
Recurrence: the hernia returns after treatment, often due to inadequate repair or underlying risk factors

A hernia is a protrusion or bulge that occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weakened area in the muscle or connective tissue.
Types of hernias include:
- Inguinal hernia: occurs in the groin area, most common type
- Umbilical hernia: occurs near the belly button
- Hiatal hernia: occurs in the upper stomach
- Incisional hernia: occurs through a previous surgical incision
- Ventral hernia: occurs in the abdominal wall

Weakened muscles or connective tissue can be caused by:
- Age
- Injury
- Surgery
- Obesity
- Coughing or straining
- Family history
Increased pressure within the abdominal cavity can be caused by:
- Lifting heavy objects
- Coughing or sneezing
- Straining during bowel movements or urination

A visible bulge or lump in the affected area
Discomfort or pain in the affected area, especially with coughing, straining, or lifting
Feeling of heaviness or pressure in the abdomen
Discomfort or pain in the testicles (in the case of inguinal hernia)

Diagnosis is typically made through a physical examination and medical history
Imaging tests such as CT or MRI scans may be used to confirm the diagnosis
Treatment options include:
- Open hernia repair: a single incision is made to repair the hernia
- Laparoscopic hernia repair: several small incisions are made and a laparoscope is used to guide the repair
- Robotic hernia repair: a robotic system is used to assist with the repair

Strangulation: the hernia becomes trapped and its blood supply is cut off, leading to tissue death
Obstruction: the hernia blocks the intestine, leading to bowel obstruction
Recurrence: the hernia returns after treatment, often due to inadequate repair or underlying risk factors