Overview
Minimally Invasive Surgery

Ventral Hernia

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Ventral Hernia

A ventral hernia is a tear in the wall around the abdomen, sometimes caused by a weakening of the tissue from a previous surgery. As the tear gets larger, a bulge may develop below the skin.

If left untreated, parts of the abdomen may become stuck or twisted in the hernia, causing problems with digestion or other organ functions and can be a surgical emergency. This can lead to other health problems and make closing the hernia more difficult.90

Standard Treatment of a Ventral Hernia

As with any abdominal problem you are having, it’s important to talk to your doctor about your symptoms. A ventral hernia is usually repaired surgically. It’s a common procedure – in 2009, nearly 384,000 ventral hernia repairs (VHRs) are performed in the U.S. alone.21

If your doctor has recommended surgery, it’s important to gather as much information as you can about the procedure. How your surgeon actually performs the surgery can dramatically impact your recovery period and pain after the operation. There are two different approaches to consider: One is a traditional “open” method (which requires a large incision), and the other is a minimally invasive procedure (with smaller incisions) that may reduce pain, scarring, and the risk of complications.

Site References

Talking about Ventral Hernia Repair with your Doctor

If you are diagnosed with a ventral hernia, your doctor will refer you to a surgeon who specializes in the procedure for its repair. If you’re interested in having a minimally invasive procedure, ask your doctor if it is appropriate and to recommend a surgeon trained in laparoscopic techniques.

These questions can help you gather the information you need from your doctor:

  • Why is it necessary to have a ventral hernia repaired?
  • What happens during ventral hernia surgery?
  • Is minimally invasive surgery an option for my ventral hernia repair?
  • What are the benefits of a minimally invasive surgery for ventral hernia repair?
  • What are the risks of an MIP for ventral hernia repair?

Once you’ve been referred to a surgeon, it’s important to continue the conversation about your procedure. Only your surgeon can decide whether or not you’re a candidate for a minimally invasive procedure, but you should feel comfortable to get the best information.

Ventral Hernia Resources

Learn more about your condition and possible treatment options with these resources.

American Hernia Society 

The American Hernia Society’s mission is to provide an evidence-based scientific and professional forum for education and exchange of information regarding current and future methods of treatment of abdominal wall hernias.

  • Medline Plus – Health Information from the National Library of Medicine
  • Medline Plus has extensive information from the National Institutes of Health and many other sources on over 650 diseases and conditions.
  • http://www.medlineplus.com/

Society of American Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES)

SAGES represents a worldwide community of surgeons that can bring minimal access surgery, endoscopy, and emerging techniques to patients in every country.

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Find a Surgeon

Whether you choose to have conventional surgery or to have a Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS), it is important that you have a surgeon who is experienced and qualified to perform the proce- dure. Use the tips below to ensure that your surgeon has the proper credentials.

To locate a surgeon in your area experienced with MIS, click here.