A hernia is a bulge or protrusion of any bodily organ into an area that it doesn’t belong. Hernias are most often found in the abdominal area. They can, however, occur anywhere in the body. Hernia repair surgery is one of the most common surgical conditions treated by a general surgeon. Dr. Richard Fox treats any and all types of hernias.
Hernia: Common Types 
· An INCISIONAL hernia occurs at the site of any previous surgical incision.
· An UMBILICAL hernia occurs around the naval where the umbilical cord once passed through the abdominal wall.
· An INGUINAL hernia occurs in the groin where ovarian and testicular ligaments as well as other internal structures pass through the abdominal wall. These may be acquired (wear and tear) or congenital (remnants left over from birth).
· A FEMORAL hernia is one that occurs just below the groin. It may appear similar to an inguinal hernia. It occurs where blood vessels and nerves pass through the groin into the leg.
· An EPIGASTRIC hernia is similar to an umbilical hernia but occurs higher up on the abdomen between the naval and the chest.
· A VENTRAL hernia is one that occurs anywhere in the abdominal wall.
Hernia: Uncommon or Special types
· A SPIGELIAN hernia occurs in the abdominal wall just outside the border of the rectus or “six-pack” muscles.
· A DIAPHRAGM hernia (HIATAL and PARA-ESOPHAGEAL) occurs inside the 
chest. This happens when the esophagus or stomach protrude through the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen. With these hernias, patients may not see or feel a bulge because the hernia is inside the abdominal or chest cavity. These hernias are commonly associated with GERD (Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease) and intestinal blockages.
· A PEDIATRIC hernia is caused by an abdominal wall defect that fails to close after birth. These are repaired by traditional means without mesh. Children generally recover quickly from their surgery.
· Complex abdominal wall reconstruction is often required for large ventral or incisional hernias where stomas may be involved.
Hernia Repair Surgery:
A hernia is generally repaired surgically. This can be done through minimally invasive surgery (laparoscopy) or via traditional (open) means. A laparoscope is a tiny video camera inserted through a small incision in the abdomen. With this camera, the doctor can see inside and use small tools to repair the hernia. In some cases, a mesh will be used to mend the weak area in the abdominal wall. During your consultation, Dr. Richard Fox will review with you the various available hernia repair treatment options.
Before and During the Procedure:
· You will not be allowed to eat or drink anything after a specific time the evening before your surgery. You will be informed of this time when you schedule your surgery. You will also be given information about which hospital your surgery will be performed. Be sure to read all of the information and arrive to the hospital on time for your procedure.
· When you arrive, you will be taken to the pre-surgery area where you will change into a gown and be given an IV for fluids and medication during your surgery. You will also meet the anesthesiologist. He or she will explain the medications to be used during your procedure to keep you comfortable. Hernia surgery is often performed under general anesthesia, so you are asleep and unable to feel pain. You will also see your surgeon and sign a consent form prior to your surgery.
· Once you are taken to the operating room and are asleep, your procedure will be completed. The incisions are usually closed with dissolvable sutures and covered with steri-strips.
· After the procedure is complete, you will be taken to the recovery room for a few hours to wake up from the anesthesia. You will be allowed to have something to eat. You will also be asked to get up and walk to aid in the recovery process. Most small hernia repairs will be discharged to home. If you have a large or complex hernia repair, you may be admitted to the hospital to recover.
· Please click here to view the Surgery Instructions from Boulder Community Hospital.
Getting Back To Normal:
· Following your surgery, you may experience constipation while taking the pain medications. This is normal and should resolve itself. To aid in this process, we recommend that you use an over the counter stool softeners and fiber supplement. You may eat as tolerated.
· Post surgery pain is common. Be sure to utilize the pain medication prescribed to you by your physician.
· You will be allowed to shower the day after your surgery. You should avoid soaking in a bath or hot tub until after your follow up visit.
· Lifting and driving restrictions are specified on your postoperative instruction sheet.
· Ease back into your normal daily activity and be sure to eat balanced, healthy meals.
· Keep your follow up appointment approximately 10-14 days after your surgery.
