An abdominal hernia is a common problem caused by is a weakness of the abdominal wall, which is sometimes preexisting since birth. Abdominal fat or even bowels can protrude through this abdominal wall defect, which is causing pain and in some cases necrosis of the trapped content. The most known abdominal hernias are the umbilical hernia and the inguinal hernia, but there are other less common hernias (epigastric, femoral, Spigelian) and there is the incisional hernias, which is caused by a trauma (like previous surgery) of the abdominal wall.

Spigelian Hernia | IntechOpen

Causes

Obesity, chronic coughing or vomiting, straining when you poo (when being constipated).

Symptoms

Aching or pain as the site of the hernia (caused by abdominal fat or even sometimes small bowel being trapped) especially when moving or bending, a palpable and sometimes visible lump, sometimes there is vomiting and a feeling that the bowels are restricted (in case of a dangerous small bowel obstruction).

Diagnostics

Abdominal wall ultrasound, CT scan (or MRI)

Treatment

Laparoscopic or open surgical repair (usually combined with a mesh when the defect is larger than 1 cm in size) is the standard treatment. This needs is done as an emergency operation is case the abdominal content is trapped/ cannot be pushed back (incarcerated hernia). Alternatively, a hernia belt is used (in case the patient refuses or is not fit for surgery).

Risks of the surgery

Chronic pain, wound infection, Hematoma/bleeding, recurrence of the hernia (<5%).

Why chose Professor Guido Mannaerts MD PhD

Is a Netherlands double board certified gastrointestinal and oncological surgeon with who is dedicated to minimal scar incision surgical approaches.
As being an Adjunct Professor at the UAE University and a broad research background Professor Guido is aiming for state of the art surgical care using the latest techniques.
His pleasant, honest, patient-centred care and being committed to achieve the best results for you makes you feel being treated like a family expert.