Hernia

Living with a hernia can cause difficulties ranging from mild discomfort to significant pain and may disrupt your quality of life. Whether you are experiencing new symptoms or evaluating surgical repair options, the experienced specialists affiliated with Memorial Hermann provide a range of minimally invasive treatment options to repair your hernia and help restore your active lifestyle as quickly as possible.

A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in your muscles or connective tissue. This may create a bulge that can be felt or seen. While some hernias cause no pain, others can lead to discomfort, heavy sensations or burning. When symptoms of a hernia are present, it is important to see a health care provider for a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss potential treatment options.

Hernias can occur in different parts of the body, and the specific symptoms depend on which type of hernia has developed.

Groin Hernia (Inguinal and Femoral)

These are the most common types of hernia. Inguinal hernias occur in the lower abdomen or groin, while femoral hernias appear in the upper thigh. Both inguinal and femoral hernias can cause a visible bulge that may feel heavy or pull or burn, especially when bending over, lifting or coughing.

Abdominal Hernias (Epigastric, Ventral and Umbilical)

These types of hernias occur when tissue pushes through the abdominal wall. Abdominal hernias typically cause a soft lump that becomes more prominent when straining. Epigastric hernias develop in the upper abdomen (between the breastbone and belly button); ventral hernias appear along the central part of the abdomen; and umbilical hernias develop at or around the belly button.

Hiatal Hernias

Unlike other hernias, a hiatal hernia rarely causes an outward bulge. This type of hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach pushes upward into the chest cavity. Symptoms primarily affect the digestive system, including frequent acid reflux, chest burning, difficulty swallowing or a sour taste in the throat.

Incisional Hernia

These hernias develop directly along or near a past surgical scar or incision in the abdomen, causing a bulge or weakness.

If a hernial bulge changes color (turns red, purple or dark), or if sudden severe pain or nausea or vomiting occurs, it is important to seek immediate emergency care.

Certain factors can place extra pressure on the abdominal muscles or other areas and may potentially weaken them over time. If you experience any of these occurrences or conditions, you may be at a higher risk of developing a hernia:

• Chronic coughing or sneezing
• Straining during bowel movements or urination
• A history of past abdominal surgeries
• Being pregnant or experiencing sudden weight gain
• Being overweight or obese

Diagnosing a hernia involves a physical exam where the provider will visually and manually check for a bulge and may ask you to intentionally cough or strain to help make the affected area more visible.

In addition to a physical exam, imaging tests may be needed for an accurate diagnosis. Health care providers may recommend one of the following noninvasive imaging options.

Ultrasound: A test that uses sound waves to create images of tissue inside your body

Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: An X-ray exam with computer processing that captures detailed, cross-sectional pictures of your abdomen or other affected areas

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): A test that uses a large magnet and radio waves to create images of tissue inside the body

The general surgeons affiliated with Memorial Hermann specialize in innovative, minimally invasive surgical techniques designed to repair hernias and support recovery and well-being. Specialists combine a comprehensive medical approach with personalized, compassionate care to identify the most appropriate treatment option to optimize outcomes and enhance recovery.

Laparoscopic Hernia Repair

Using tiny incisions and a miniature camera allows surgeons the ability to precisely repair weakened tissue. This approach often leads to less postsurgical discomfort and a faster return to daily routines.

Robotic-Assisted Surgery

Utilizing advanced technology, specialists perform hernia repairs with enhanced 3D visibility and precise control. This approach generally produces optimal outcomes with minimal scarring.

Open Hernia Repair

In some cases, a traditional open surgical procedure is the most appropriate option. This type of repair involves an incision near the hernia so the surgeon can return the bulging tissue to the correct location and repair the abdominal wall. Open surgical procedures typically have longer recovery times.

Hernia Revision Surgery and Complex Abdominal Wall Reconstruction

If you are experiencing persistent discomfort, complications from a previous hernia surgery or the development of another hernia at the site of a previous hernia repair, revision surgery may be advised. The general surgeons affiliated with Memorial Hermann are highly experienced in evaluating previous surgical sites, carefully managing scar tissue or mesh complications, and performing corrective procedures designed to restore your comfort and long-term abdominal strength.

Why Choose Memorial Hermann for Hernia Care?

Finding relief from hernia pain or discomfort can help improve your overall health and quality of life. The hernia specialists affiliated with Memorial Hermann work collaboratively to identify the most appropriate care option for each individual patient, combining clinical experience with personalized, compassionate care.

Minimally Invasive Surgical Options: Memorial Hermann-affiliated surgeons specialize in advanced laparoscopic and robotic-assisted techniques that may lead to reduced pain and faster revocery.

Multidisciplinary Teams: For complex cases, surgeons collaborate with other specialists to create a comprehensive care plan tailored to your specific needs.

Convenient Access Across Greater Houston: With multiple locations, leading-edge hernia care from diagnosis through recovery is available close to home.

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