Hernia Specialist

What is a hernia?

If you have noticed a bulge in your groin, umbilicus (belly button) or an old abdominal incision, you are probably dealing with a hernia. Hernias generally develop in your abdominal wall, anywhere between your pelvis and chest. In most cases, a hernia develops because of weakened muscles that you may have had since birth. It’s also possible that your abdominal muscles have weakened as you’ve gotten older, or from a previous surgery.

How do I know what kind of hernia I have?

While many types of hernias exist, below are short descriptions of some of the most common types.

Inguinal  

When part of your intestine or fatty tissue protrudes through your groin near the top of your upper thigh, you likely have an inguinal hernia. In men, the inguinal canal is the pathway for the spermatic cord and vessels that lead to your testicles, while in women, the inguinal canal contains connective tissues that support your womb.  

Umbilical

An umbilical hernia occurs when part of your intestines or small portions of fatty tissue poke through your abdomen near your belly button. 

Are there symptoms of a hernia?

Yes! One of the first things you may notice when you have a hernia is a visible bulge that you can push back in. Sometimes, you will feel a “gurgle” as it goes back.The bump may even disappear when you lie down. But hernias are also known for being painful and causing:

• Aching sensations
• Sense of fullness
• A feeling of a bowel obstruction (bloating)
  
  

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, come into ColoProctology Associates & nasaHernia for an evaluation. Dr. Aquino can gather any necessary imaging, like an abdominal ultrasound or CT scan, to confirm that you have a hernia and determine which treatment you may need. 

Is Hernia common in the USA?

Yes. The incidence of a person developing some type of hernia in their lifetime is approximately 10%. One million hernia repairs are performed annually in the United States. Approximately 750,000 are inguinal hernia.

How is a hernia treated?

In most cases, surgery is necessary to treat and correct a hernia. A truss or support belt can be used in patients who have high risk medical problems making surgery very risky. Without proper surgical intervention, your risk of long-term complications is higher.

Dr. Aquino can usually perform laparoscopic da Vinci® robotic procedures to repair the weakness in your abdominal wall. He’s likely going to insert a surgical mesh to patch the opening.

Some patients will request a mesh free repair of their groin and umbilical hernias.  This technique is known as the Shouldice repair which is safe and as durable as the mesh repair.

Dr. Aquino typically recommends avoiding strenuous activities and avoiding lifting objects heavier than 20 pounds for at least several weeks. But over time, you can gradually return to your normal activities without experiencing hernia-related issues. 

As a board-certified surgeon, Dr. Aquino has extensive knowledge and training in regards to the mesh free Shouldice repair and to other modern minimally invasive hernia procedures.

ColoProctology Associates & nasaHernia does not provide care for Hiatal Hernias which are usually repaired by Bariatric surgeons. 

With the help of board certified surgeon, Marcus Aquino, MD, FACS, FASCRS, you can undergo effective correction of this problem at ColoProctology Associates & nasaHernia in Seabrook Texas.

Book your hernia evaluation through the website or call to schedule over the phone today.