Incisional Hernia

Overview

Incisional Hernia occurs when tissue or part of an organ protrudes through a weak area in the abdominal wall at the site of a previous surgical incision. It can develop months or even years after abdominal surgery.

This type of hernia appears as a bulge near a surgical scar and may become more noticeable during activities such as coughing, standing, or lifting heavy objects.

At Moolchand Hospital, patients with hernia conditions receive expert care from experienced general and laparoscopic surgeons. As a trusted multi super speciality hospital in Delhi and a leading hospital in Lajpat Nagar Delhi, Moolchand provides advanced diagnostic evaluation and minimally invasive surgical treatment for incisional hernias.

What is an Incisional Hernia?

An incisional hernia develops when the abdominal muscles fail to heal completely after surgery. The weakened area allows internal tissue, fat, or intestine to push outward through the surgical scar.

Incisional hernias may vary in size and severity. Some remain small and cause minimal discomfort, while others may enlarge over time.

Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the size and location of the hernia.

Common symptoms include:

• A visible bulge near a surgical scar
  
  

• Discomfort or pain at the incision site
  
  

• Swelling that becomes more noticeable when coughing or straining
  
  

• Pressure or heaviness in the abdomen
  
  

• Pain during physical activity
  
  

In some cases, the bulge may disappear when lying down and reappear when standing.

Causes

Incisional hernias occur due to weakening of the abdominal wall following surgery.

Common causes include:

• Incomplete healing of the surgical incision
  
  

• Infection at the surgical site
  
  

• Excess pressure on the abdominal wall after surgery
  
  

• Obesity
  
  

• Chronic coughing or straining
  
  

• Heavy lifting too soon after surgery
  
  

The risk is higher after major abdominal procedures.

Risk Factors

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing an incisional hernia:

• Previous abdominal surgery
  
  

• Obesity or excess abdominal weight
  
  

• Poor wound healing
  
  

• Smoking
  
  

• Diabetes
  
  

• Repeated abdominal strain
  
  

Following proper postoperative care instructions helps reduce the risk.

Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose an incisional hernia through physical examination and imaging tests.

Diagnostic methods may include:

• Clinical examination of the abdomen
  
  

• Ultrasound imaging
  
  

• CT scan of the abdomen to evaluate hernia size and contents
  
  

At Moolchand Hospital Delhi, advanced imaging facilities help confirm the diagnosis and assist surgeons in planning the most appropriate treatment.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the size of the hernia and the symptoms experienced.

Observation

Small hernias without symptoms may be monitored under medical supervision.

Surgical Repair

Surgery is often recommended when the hernia causes discomfort or continues to grow.

Common surgical approaches include:

• Open hernia repair
  
  

• Laparoscopic hernia repair
  
  

During surgery, the protruding tissue is returned to the abdomen and the weakened abdominal wall is strengthened, often using surgical mesh.

Possible Complications

If untreated, incisional hernias may lead to complications such as:

• Hernia enlargement over time
  
  

• Incarcerated hernia – tissue becomes trapped
  
  

• Strangulated hernia – blood supply to the tissue is cut off
  
  

• Intestinal obstruction
  
  

Early surgical repair can prevent serious complications.

Prevention

Although not all incisional hernias can be prevented, the following steps may help reduce risk:

• Following postoperative recovery instructions
  
  

• Avoiding heavy lifting after surgery
  
  

• Maintaining a healthy body weight
  
  

• Managing chronic cough or constipation
  
  

• Quitting smoking to improve wound healing
  
  

Proper postoperative care plays an important role in prevention.

Why Choose Moolchand Hospital?

Patients choose Moolchand Hospital Lajpat Nagar for hernia treatment because of:

• Experienced general and laparoscopic surgeons
  
  

• Advanced minimally invasive surgical techniques
  
  

• Modern operation theatres and surgical facilities
  
  

• Comprehensive preoperative and postoperative care
  
  

• Multidisciplinary medical support
  
  

• Trusted care at a leading private hospital in Delhi
  
  

The hospital offers personalized surgical care for patients with complex and recurrent hernias.