Epigastric Hernia
Overview
An epigastric hernia is a type of hernia that occurs in the upper abdomen, in the area between the chest and the navel (belly button). It involves a protrusion of fat or sometimes other tissues through a weakness or opening in the muscles of the abdominal wall.
It’s important to note that the specific details of diagnosis and treatment may vary based on individual patient cases and the policies of Indotaj Medical Center. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized information and guidance based on your specific health condition.
Why it's done
Epigastric Hernia treatment may be recommended for several reasons, including:
- The abdominal muscles in the epigastric region may weaken over time due to various factors, such as aging, genetic predisposition, or a congenital weakness present since birth.
- Conditions or activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure can contribute to the development of an epigastric hernia. This can include heavy lifting, chronic coughing, constipation, obesity, or pregnancy.
- Some individuals may have a natural predisposition to developing hernias due to congenital weaknesses or defects in the abdominal wall.
- Aging can lead to changes in the tissues and muscles, making them more susceptible to hernia formation.
- Past abdominal surgeries, especially those involving incisions in the upper abdominal area, can create areas of weakness that may contribute to hernia formation.
- There may be a genetic component, with some individuals being more prone to hernias due to inherited factors affecting the strength of their abdominal muscles.
Risk
Epigastric Hernia treatment, can pose potential risks and complications. Some of these include:
- Bleeding
- Strangulation
- Obstruction
- Pain and Discomfort
- Enlargement of the Hernia
- Difficulty in Reducing the Hernia
- Recurrence
- Infection
- Adverse Reactions to Anesthesia
- Chronic Pain
How do I get ready for Epigastric Hernia treatment?
Preparing for Epigastric Hernia treatment involves several steps to ensure a smooth procedure and recovery:
- Schedule a consultation with your healthcare provider or surgeon to discuss the need for epigastric hernia treatment.
- Ask any questions you may have and ensure you fully understand the procedure and potential risks.
- Provide a comprehensive medical history, including any existing medical conditions, allergies, and a list of medications you are currently taking.
- Inform your healthcare provider about any over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, or vitamins.
- Complete any necessary diagnostic tests, such as blood tests, imaging studies, or physical examinations, as recommended by your healthcare team.
- If surgery is deemed necessary, you will undergo a preoperative evaluation to ensure you are fit for the procedure.
- This may include additional tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or chest X-ray, based on your health and the type of anesthesia planned.
- Talk to your healthcare team about the type of anesthesia that will be used during the procedure.
- If you have a history of adverse reactions to anesthesia, make sure to inform your healthcare team.
- Adhere to fasting guidelines provided by your healthcare team. This ensures an empty stomach before the surgery, reducing the risk of complications during the procedure.
