Umbilical hernia repair is a treatment that treats umbilical hernias. A pouch or bulge arises in the abdomen with an umbilical hernia. A portion of the colon or other abdominal cavity cells breaks through a thin point in the abdominal wall at the belly button, resulting in a bulge. It can manifest itself in both adults and young children.
People with umbilical hernias might develop a dangerous condition known as strangulation in rare situations. When the blood supply to the herniated tissue is abruptly cut off, strangulation happens. This can arise with non-reducible umbilical hernias that can’t be forced back into the abdominal wall.
What is the purpose of umbilical hernia repair surgery?
Surgical treatment of umbilical hernias is not usually necessary. When a hernia occurs, surgery is required.
- causes discomfort
- is more than half an inch in length
- is strangled
Infants’ umbilical hernias are pretty prevalent. During pregnancy, the umbilical cord slips through a hole in the baby’s stomach muscles. Immediately after birth, the hole generally closes. If it doesn’t shut completely, a weak area in the baby’s stomach wall can form. Hence, they are more likely to develop an umbilical hernia.
What are the complications of umbilical hernia repair?
Umbilical hernia repair has a low risk of complications. If you have any other major medical concerns, though, complications may develop. If you’re worried about an increased risk of problems, talk to your doctor. Other rare risks might include:
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Damaged to the intra-abdominal and small intestine
How should you prepare for umbilical hernia repair?
The operation to treat an umbilical hernia is usually done under general anesthesia. This means you’ll be completely sleeping and won’t feel any discomfort. Rather than general anesthesia, a spinal block can be used to treat some abdominal hernias.
A spinal block is an anesthesia medication that is injected into the spinal canal. It makes the area of the stomach that is being healed numb. Although you will be awake for this treatment, you will be given pain relievers and sedative drugs to keep you calm.
Several days before the operation, you’ll have to cease taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and aspirin. This will lower your chances of significant bleeding during the surgery. You need to stop eating for at least 6 hours before the operation is almost always required. Talk to your doctor for detailed instructions about the pre and post-surgery treatment.
