What is a Hernia?

A hernia occurs when the inside layers of the abdominal muscle have weakened, resulting in a bulge or tear. This can allow a loop of intestine or abdominal tissue to push into the sac.

What is an Inguinal Hernia?

A hernia is a condition in which part of the intestine bulges through a weak area in muscles in the abdomen. An inguinal hernia occurs in the groin (the area between the abdomen and thigh).

What is a Ventral Hernia?

A ventral hernia usually occurs in the abdominal wall where a previous surgical incision was made. In this area, the abdominal muscles have weakened, thus resulting in a bulge of intestine or a tear of the muscle.

Common areas for Hernias to occur

• Groin (inguinal)
• Belly Button (umbilical)
• Previous operation (incisional)

View how an Inguinal Hernia is repaired.

Anyone can get a hernia at any age. They are more common as we get older. Hernias develop due to heavy strain on the abdominal wall, aging, injury, an old incision or a weakness present from birth. Most hernias in children are congenital. In adults, a natural weakness or strain grom heavy lifting, persistent coughing, difficulty with bowel movements or urination can cause the abdominal wall to weaken or separate.