Dr Ashok Gunawardene

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Umbilical Hernia Surgery Epping Northern Private Hospital

Overview of Umbilical Hernia

An umbilical hernia develops when tissue, like fat or part of the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall near the navel (umbilicus). This page provides insights into the prevalence, symptoms, assessment, and treatment options for umbilical hernias, informed by current clinical guidelines and evidence-based practices. Northern Surgical Care, led by a registered specialist general surgeon, offers consultations to assess and manage umbilical hernias. Patients are advised to consult a qualified health practitioner for personalised guidance.

Umbilical Hernia Repair Epping Northern Private Hospital

How Common Is Umbilical Hernia?

Umbilical hernias are common, especially in infants, where they occur in approximately 10-20% of newborns and typically resolve by age 2-4 years. In adults, they are less frequent but more common in women, particularly during or after pregnancy, and in individuals with obesity, chronic cough, or conditions that increase abdominal pressure. Studies estimate that 2-10% of adults will develop umbilical hernias, with the risk rising with age and certain lifestyle factors.

Main Symptoms

Symptoms of an umbilical hernia vary depending on its size, contents, and complications. Common symptoms include:

  • Bulge at the Navel: A visible or palpable lump near the belly button, which may become more noticeable when standing, coughing, or straining.
  • Discomfort or Pain: Mild to moderate pain or tenderness around the navel, especially during physical activity or prolonged standing.
  • Pressure or Heaviness: A sensation of fullness or pressure at the hernia site.
  • Swelling or Redness: In rare cases, signs of complications like incarceration (trapped tissue) or strangulation (restricted blood flow), which may cause severe pain, nausea, vomiting, or skin changes.

Many adults with umbilical hernias are asymptomatic, with the condition being discovered incidentally. Urgent medical evaluation is needed for severe or sudden symptoms, such as intense pain or an inability to push the hernia back.

Assessment of Umbilical Hernia

Diagnosis of an umbilical hernia typically involves:

  • Medical History and Symptom Review: A discussion of symptoms, lifestyle factors (e.g., obesity, pregnancy, or heavy lifting), and medical history to assess risk factors or complications.
  • Physical Examination: A clinical examination to check for a bulge at the navel, often performed while the patient stands or strains to make the hernia more visible.
  • Diagnostic Tests (if needed):
    • Ultrasound: Used to confirm the hernia’s presence, size, or contents, particularly in cases where the diagnosis is unclear.
    • CT Scan: Rarely required, used to evaluate complex cases or suspected complications like incarceration or strangulation.
    • Blood tests may be used if complications are suspected to check for infection or other abnormalities.

Most umbilical hernias are identified through physical examination alone. A specialist will determine if further testing is required based on the clinical findings.

Treatment Options

Treatment for umbilical hernia depends on symptoms, size, and the patient’s overall health. Options include:

  • Watchful Waiting:
    • Suitable for small, asymptomatic hernias with low risk of complications, particularly in infants or adults with minimal symptoms.
    • Involves regular monitoring by a healthcare professional to detect changes in the hernia.
    • Patients are advised to report new or worsening symptoms immediately.
  • Surgical Repair:
    • Open Umbilical Hernia Repair: This procedure involves an incision near the navel to push the herniated tissue back into place and strengthen the abdominal wall, often with mesh for larger hernias.
    • Laparoscopic Hernia Repair: A minimally invasive technique involving small incisions and a camera to repair the hernia, typically with mesh, offering reduced postoperative pain and faster recovery.
    • Surgery is typically recommended for symptomatic hernias, larger hernias, or those at risk of complications. Risks such as infection, recurrence, or chronic pain are reviewed during consultation to assess suitability.
  • Lifestyle Advice:
    • Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce abdominal pressure and prevent hernia progression.
    • Avoiding heavy lifting or activities that strain the abdominal wall.
    • Managing chronic cough or constipation to minimise hernia enlargement.
  • Multidisciplinary Support: In collaboration with dietitians or other healthcare professionals, patients may receive guidance on lifestyle modifications to support recovery and prevent recurrence.

Not all treatment options are suitable for every patient, as treatment plans are individualised. A specialist consultation is essential to assess the risks, benefits, and appropriateness of various treatments.

What to Expect

At Northern Surgical Care, your consultation will include a review of your symptoms, medical history, and risk factors by a specialist general surgeon. A physical exam will be done, and imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis. If surgery is appropriate, a detailed plan for preparation, the procedure, and recovery will be explained. You will also receive guidance on postoperative care and lifestyle changes to enhance recovery and reduce the risk of recurrence. Contact Northern Surgical Care to schedule your consultation at Epping Northern Private Hospital for a personalised assessment and management of your umbilical hernia.

References

  • Dabbas N, Adams K, Pearson K, et al. Frequency of abdominal wall hernias: is classical teaching out of date? JRSM Short Rep. 2011;2(1):5. doi:10.1258/shorts.2010.010071
  • Fitzgibbons RJ Jr, Forse RA. Clinical practice. Groin hernias in adults. N Engl J Med. 2015;372(8):756-63. doi:10.1056/NEJMcp1404068
  • Muysoms FE, Miserez M, Berrevoet F, et al. Classification of primary and incisional abdominal wall hernias. Hernia. 2009;13(4):407-14. doi:10.1007/s10029-009-0518-x
  • Simons MP, Aufenacker T, Bay-Nielsen M, et al. European Hernia Society guidelines on the treatment of inguinal hernia in adult patients. Hernia. 2009;13(4):343-403. doi:10.1007/s10029-009-0529-7
  • Lockhart K, Dunn D, Teo S, et al. Mesh versus non-mesh for inguinal and femoral hernia repair. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2018;9(9):CD011517. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD011517.pub2