Paraumbilical hernia


A paraumbilical hernia is a protrusion of the abdominal contents, including mesenteric fat or bowel, through a weak point of the muscles or ligaments near the navel. It can lead to discomfort when fatty tissue gets trapped and a lump can be felt or seen.
Whilst such a hernia is not usually life-threatening, routine surgical treatment is usually advised to prevent enlargement or strangulation or obstruction of the gut. Women are more frequently affected than men.

Treatment

The protrusion is put back within the abdomen in the correct position. Stitches are used to strengthen the weakness where the hernia has broken through.
The operation is usually performed under a general anaesthetic.
In most cases this is done as a day case without the need for an overnight stay.