Paraumbilical and Umbilical Hernia Repair

What are Paraumbilical and Umbilical Hernias?

There is a natural weakness in the wall of your abdomen at your umbilicus (belly button). This is caused by the way babies develop in the womb. If the contents of your abdomen push through, this produces a lump called a hernia (see figure 1).

A hernia can be dangerous because your intestines or other structures within your abdomen can get trapped and have their blood supply cut off (strangulated hernia).

What are the Benefits of Paraumbilical and Umbilical Hernia Repair?

You should no longer have the hernia. Surgery should prevent the serious complications that a hernia can cause.

Are There Any Alternatives to Paraumbilical and Umbilical Hernia Repair?

In children under the age of about four, umbilical hernias tend to close. For older children and adults, the hernia will not get better without surgery.

The Procedure

What Does the Paraumbilical and Umbilical Hernia Repair Involve?

The operation is usually performed under a general anaesthetic. The operation usually takes about 30 minutes.

Your surgeon will make a cut near your umbilicus and remove the 'hernial sac'. They will close the weak spot with strong stitches or a synthetic mesh and close your skin.

What Complications Can Happen?

General Complications

Pain
Bleeding
Infection of the surgical site (wound)
Unsightly scarring
Blood clots

Specific Complications

Developing a lump under your wound
Injury to structures within your abdomen
Removing your umbilicus

Following Surgery

How Soon Will I Recover?

You should be able to go home the same day.

Increase how much you walk around over the first few days.

You should be able to return to work after two to four weeks, depending on the extent of surgery and your type of work.

Regular exercise should help you to return to normal activities as soon as possible. Before you start exercising, ask the healthcare team or your GP for advice.

The hernia can come back.

Summary

A hernia near your umbilicus is a common condition caused by a weakness in your abdominal wall. If left untreated, a hernia near your umbilicus can cause serious complications.

To enquire about Paraumbilical and Umbilical Hernia Repair at New Victoria Hospital, call 020 8949 9020 or fill out our contact form.

Acknowledgements

Author: Prof Simon Parsons DM FRCS (Gen. Surg.)

The operation and treatment information on this website is published under license by New Victoria Hospital from EIDO Healthcare UK and is protected by copyright laws. Other than for your personal, non-commercial use, you may not copy, print out, download or otherwise reproduce any of the information. The information should not replace advice that your relevant health professional would give you.