Hernia

Hernia

Most hernias occur when the abdominal wall weakens causing an opening in the muscle. Pressure in the area can cause tissue to push through the opening and bulge out.

Common symptoms:  
  • Outward bulge of skin or tissues at the hernia site.
  • Mild pain or discomfort over the area; however, you may not experience any pain from the hernia. 

You are more likely to develop a hernia if you have any of the following conditions: 
  1. Overweight
  2. Persistent coughing or sneezing
  3. Constipation causing you to strain to have a bowel movement
  4. Smoking
  5. Straining or lifting of heavy objects
  6. Poor nutrition 

The most common types of hernia are inguinal (groin), femoral (outer groin) ventral (abdominal wall), incisional (caused by a previous incision) and umbilical (belly button). 

If you suspect you have a hernia, it is important to have this evaluated by a qualified surgeon to determine appropriate treatment. 

Treatment options include:
  • Conservative management: May be recommended if your hernia is small and has not caused any discomfort.
  • Open surgical repair: Incision is made at the hernia site and the hernia is gently placed back into the abdomen. Then if the hernia is larger, mesh may be placed. The wound is then sutured closed and surgical glue is used over the outer portion of the wound. 
  • Laparoscopic hernia repair: The surgeon makes several small incisions to place ports into the abdomen. The abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide gas so the hernia can be visualized and with the use of instruments inserted through the ports the hernia can be repaired. If necessary, mesh can also be placed. 
  • If you develop sudden pain, nausea and/or vomiting please seek treatment immediately at the emergency room as these may be signs of a strangulated (incarcerated) hernia and bowel obstruction. 

Dr. O’Holleran is certified by the American Board of Surgery with over 40 years of experience treating inguinal, femoral, ventral, incisional and umbilical hernias. He performs hernia surgery at the High Plains Surgery Center in Cheyenne, Poudre Valley Hospital in Fort Collins and Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland, Co. as an outpatient procedure. You can expect to have a lifting restriction and no strenuous activity for 4-6 weeks post op; however, most patients can return to light duty in 3-7 days after surgery.  

Please contact us at (307) 637-5600 where our staff is available to assist you with your appointment and answer any additional questions. 
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