What exactly is a ventral hernia?

A ventral hernia is a type of abdominal wall hernia that occurs in the front of the abdomen. It occurs when there is a weakness or defect in the abdominal wall muscles, allowing abdominal contents, such as the intestines, to protrude through the weakened area. This can result in a bulge or swelling in the abdomen.

Ventral hernias are classified based on their location:

- Epigastric hernias: These occur in the upper middle part of the abdomen, just below the breastbone.

- Umbilical hernias: These occur at the navel or belly button. They are commonly seen in newborns and infants, but can also occur in adults.

- Incisional hernias: These develop at the site of a previous abdominal incision, such as from surgery.

- Spigelian hernias: These occur along the Spigelian line, which is a fascial line that runs from the pubic bone to the rib cage.

Ventral hernias can range in size from small, barely noticeable bulges to large, painful protrusions. In most cases, they do not cause any symptoms, but in some individuals, they can lead to discomfort, pain, and difficulty performing certain activities.

Ventral hernias are usually diagnosed through a physical examination and may be confirmed with imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or CT scan. Treatment options vary depending on the size, location, and severity of the hernia, and may include conservative management (such as wearing a hernia belt) or surgical repair.