Epigastric hernia correction

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Effective repair of upper abdominal wall defects

A general surgery procedure intended to repair defects in the upper abdominal wall, usually located between the navel and the sternum. Restores abdominal strength and resolves discomfort, pain, or visible bulge in the area.

How is this procedure performed? 

The surgery is performed under general or local anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision at the hernia site or uses laparoscopic methods for a less invasive repair. The herniated tissue is repositioned, and the abdominal wall defect is reinforced with sutures or a mesh implant, as needed. 

The recovery instructions focus on minimizing tension in the repaired area, promoting safe healing.

Warning signs

Signs that you may have an epigastric hernia

You don't have to wait for symptoms to worsen to seek evaluation. Pay attention to:
  • ✔
    Visible bulge or nodule between the navel and the chest
  • ✔
    Pain or discomfort in the area, especially with physical exertion or coughing
  • ✔
    Feeling of weight or pressure in the upper abdomen
  • ✔
    A bulge that increases with exertion and decreases with rest

If you recognize one or more of these signs, a general surgery consultation can confirm the diagnosis and indicate the most suitable treatment.

Signs that require urgent evaluation

Sudden and severe pain in the hernia area or nausea and vomiting associated with the bulge may indicate tissue strangulation. 

This is a medical emergency. In these cases, seek immediate evaluation.

The procedure

How the correction is made

The surgery is performed under general or local anesthesia. The surgeon may opt for an incision at the hernia site or laparoscopic methods for a less invasive repair. 

The herniated tissue is repositioned, and the abdominal wall defect is reinforced with sutures or a mesh implant, as needed. 

The recovery instructions focus on minimizing tension in the repaired area, promoting safe healing.
With or without mesh

In small hernias, it may be sufficient to close with sutures. In larger hernias or those with a higher risk of recurrence, the surgeon may recommend reinforcement with surgical mesh.

Why it's important

Benefits of surgical correction

Delaying treatment can increase the risk of complications such as obstruction or tissue strangulation, a situation that may require emergency surgery.

Clinical evaluation

What is evaluated before the procedure

01

Hernia characteristics

Evaluation of size, location, and associated symptoms.

02

Surgical method

Choice of the most suitable approach for repair, open or laparoscopic.

03

Need for reinforcement

Decision on the use of sutures or surgical mesh, depending on the necessary stability.

04

Post-operative care

Planning for safe recovery and long-term success.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this procedure

Can an epigastric hernia disappear without surgery?

No. Unlike some hernias in babies, an epigastric hernia in adults does not disappear spontaneously and tends to increase over time, so surgical correction is usually the only definitive solution.

When is an epigastric hernia an emergency?

If sudden and severe pain, skin redness over the bulge, or nausea and vomiting occur, it may indicate tissue strangulation, a medical emergency that requires immediate evaluation.

Does the surgery always use mesh?

Not necessarily. In small hernias, it may be sufficient to close with sutures. In larger hernias or those with a higher risk of recurrence, the surgeon may recommend reinforcement with surgical mesh.

How long does recovery take?

It depends on the technique used, laparoscopic or open, but generally allows for light activities in a few days, with a recommendation to avoid intense efforts for several weeks.

What is evaluated during the procedure?

01.

Hernia characteristics:

Evaluates the size, location, and associated symptoms.

02.

Surgical method:

Chooses the best approach for repair.

03.

Reinforcement needs:

Decides on the use of sutures or mesh for stability.

04.

Post-operative care:

Ensures a problem-free recovery and long-term success.

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