Showing Incisional Hernia Surgery - Laparoscopic/Open

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A hernia occurs due to part of an organ pushing through a weak area in the muscular wall that contains the abdominal organs. They can develop in different areas of the body such as the navel. Some hernias are present from birth, however some can appear suddenly or develop over a longer period of time. An incisional hernia develops as a result of a previous surgical incision. This causes a bulge or tear in this area where the abdominal muscles have weakened. Incisional hernias are not usually painful but they can cause discomfort when straining, for example coughing. Laparoscopic surgery involves the surgeon making small incisions in the abdominal wall and inserting a laparoscope, which is a small telescope with a camera attached. Any scar tissue will then be removed and a surgical mesh will be put into place under the hernia. This will reinforce the weakened area.