An incisional hernia occurs where abdominal muscle has been weakened by previous surgery, allowing tissue to push through the weak point. It shows as a swelling under the skin that can be tender or painful to touch.
These hernias usually follow a surgical wound that has not healed completely, often because of infection, seroma or haematoma. Most are small, allowing only the lining of the abdominal cavity to protrude, but in more severe cases part of an organ can push through the muscle opening.
Open repair
The abdominal wall is opened directly over the defect. Disturbing the surrounding tissue during the operation can obstruct blood vessels and cause blood loss, and where large openings are made there is a higher chance of haematoma, seroma and wound infection.
Laparoscopic repair
Small incisions are made in carefully chosen positions on the abdominal wall, away from existing scar tissue. A laparoscope passed through a narrow tube, together with a camera and monitor, lets the surgeon see the hernia from inside the abdomen.
Additional small incisions allow instruments in to clear scar tissue and to place a surgical mesh. The mesh is positioned beneath the defect and fixed to firm abdominal wall tissue, supporting the weakened area and reducing the chance of the hernia coming back.
Professor El-Khoury will talk through the operation with you in the rooms, covering why it is being recommended, what it involves, the risks and the benefits. He also provides Royal Australasian College of Surgeons information sheets on the procedure so you can read them at home and bring questions back.
This page is general information, not medical advice. What applies to you depends on your history, your examination and your results. Bring your questions to the consultation.