What are paraumbilical and umbilical Hernias?
The abdominal cavity contains intestines and other
structures. These are protected by the abdominal wall which
is made up of four layers. The inner layer is membrane.
The second layer is a wall made of muscle. A layer of fat
separates the muscle from the outer layer of skin.
Weak spots can develop in the layer of muscle resulting in the
contents of the abdomen, along with the inner layer, pushing
through the abdominal wall. This produces a lump which is
called a hernia.
Paraumbilical and umbilical hernias are quite common as there is
a natural weakness in the wall of the abdomen at the
umbilicus. This is caused by the way babies develop in the
womb. The hernia causes a bulge around the umbilicus and can
cause pain.
What does this involve?
Paraumbilical and umbilical hernia operations take around 30
minutes are usually done under general anaesthetic.
Your surgeon will make a cut around your umbilicus. They
will free up the 'hernial sac', place the contents back in the
abdomen and then remove the sac. Your surgeon will close the
weak spot with strong stitches or a synthetic mesh. Your skin
will be closed with stitches.
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When will I recover?
You should be able to go home the same day and your will be
advised if you need to have any stitches or clip removed. You
should increase how much you walk around of the first few days
after the operation. You may need painkillers to help
you.
You should be able to return to work after two to four weeks
depending upon the extent of your surgery and your type of work
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What risks should I know about?
Hernia surgery is a commonly performed procedure although there
are some complications that you should be aware of:
- Developing a lump under the wound which is caused by a
collection of blood or fluid and normally settles over a few
weeks.
- Injury to structures within the hernia which come from the
abdomen. This is rare but may require further surgery.
- Removing the umbilicus leaving a scar instead.
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Circle care
Hernia surgery is carried out at CircleBath, our state of the
art hospital, which provides you with the best facilities and
superb patient care. We have a dedicated team of surgeons and
nurses who will guide you through the process from first
consultation to after-care and will be available to answer any
questions or queries you may have.
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| Consultants |
Location |
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John Budd, Richard Krysztopik, Paul Maddox, Mahesh Pai, Richard Sutton, Mike Williamson
|
Bath
|
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Nicholas Armitage, Ian Beckingham, Richard I Hall, Roddy Nash, Mike Robinson, Julian Williams
|
Nottingham
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