Epigastric hernia repair
A general surgery procedure to repair defects in the upper abdominal wall, typically located between the navel and the breastbone. It restores abdominal strength and resolves the discomfort, pain or visible bulge in the area.
Signs you may have an epigastric hernia
There is no need to wait for symptoms to get worse before seeking an assessment. Look out for:
- ✓A visible bulge or lump between the navel and the chest
- ✓Pain or discomfort in the area, especially when straining or coughing
- ✓A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the upper abdomen
- ✓A bulge that gets bigger with effort and shrinks at rest
If you recognise one or more of these signs, a general surgery consultation can confirm the diagnosis and indicate the most suitable treatment.
Sudden severe pain in the area of the hernia, or nausea and vomiting alongside the bulge, can indicate strangulation of the tissue.
This is a medical emergency. In these cases, seek immediate assessment.
How the repair is performed
Surgery is carried out under general or local anaesthetic. The surgeon may opt for an incision at the site of the hernia or for laparoscopic methods, for a less invasive repair.
The herniated tissue is repositioned and the defect in the abdominal wall is reinforced with sutures or a mesh implant, depending on the case.
Recovery instructions focus on minimising strain on the repaired area, supporting safe healing.
For small hernias, closing the defect with sutures may be enough. For larger hernias or those with a higher risk of recurrence, the surgeon may recommend reinforcement with surgical mesh.
Benefits of surgical repair
Delaying treatment can increase the risk of complications such as obstruction or strangulation of the herniated tissue, a situation that may require emergency surgery.
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✓
Pain relief — resolves the discomfort caused by the hernia.
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✓
Prevention of complications — avoids serious outcomes such as strangulation of the tissue.
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✓
Better abdominal function — reinforces the wall for better support.
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✓
Cosmetic improvement — removes the visible bulge, for a smoother appearance.
What is assessed before the procedure
Characteristics of the hernia
Assessment of the size, location and associated symptoms.
Surgical method
Choosing the most suitable approach for the repair, open or laparoscopic.
Need for reinforcement
Deciding between sutures and surgical mesh, depending on the stability required.
Post-operative care
Planning a safe recovery and long-term success.
Common questions about this procedure
Can an epigastric hernia go away without surgery?+
No. Unlike some hernias in babies, an epigastric hernia in adults does not resolve on its own and tends to get larger over time, so surgical repair is generally the only definitive solution.
When is an epigastric hernia an emergency?+
Sudden severe pain, redness of the skin over the bulge, or nausea and vomiting can indicate strangulation of the tissue, a medical emergency that requires immediate assessment.
Is mesh always used in the surgery?+
Not necessarily. For small hernias, closing the defect with sutures may be enough. For 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 light activities can generally be resumed within a few days, with strenuous effort avoided for a few weeks.
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Effective repair of upper abdominal wall defects, with specialist assessment and the right technique for your case.
