Hernias occur when an organ or tissue is pushed through an adjacent wall of muscle. There are several types of hernias, but most are umbilical or inguinal (groin) hernias. Hernias are often caused by excessive intra abdominal pressure that can occur with lifting or other sports activities. They may also be caused by coughing, sneezing or straining to defecate. Most hernias should be treated to avoid potential complications, such as incarceration or strangulation. Make an appointment with Dr. Koeplin today to schedule your hernia surgery – 651.224.1347.
Treating Hernia Problems
A hernia is a condition in which a structure is pushed through the surrounding muscle. Some hernias present no symptoms at all, and may go undetected until your physician checks at a routine physical. Other times, hernias are extremely painful. In certain cases, a small part of the intestine can also become trapped in the abdominal wall – this is known as an incarcerated hernia, which can lead to a strangulated hernia (blood loss to the intestine). Strangulated hernias are potentially life-threatening and need to be surgically treated right away.
Here are a few potential symptoms that could indicate a hernia:
- Pain in the stomach or groin, especially when coughing, lifting something, or bending over.
- Soft lump in the groin or abdomen that may go away when you push it.
- Hard, painful lump in the groin or belly button.
Most hernias need to be corrected with surgery to avoid further complications. If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or your child, seek medical attention to avoid potential complications.
Hernia Surgical Procedures
Hernias are most common in the abdomen and groin area. The various types of hernias are named for the location at which they occur. Here are a few of the specific types of hernia surgery performed by Dr. Koeplin:
- Inguinal Hernia. The most common type of hernia, inguinal hernias happen when abdominal contents push through the abdominal wall near the groin or inguinal
- Femoral Hernia occurs when a part of the small intestine or other abdominal structures push into the femoral canal near the groin. These hernias occur lower in the groin than an inguinal hernia and often cannot be reduced or pushed back in, This type of hernia is more common in women.
- Umbilical Hernias develop at the belly button. These are most common in infants and can be identified by a protruding belly button.
- Incisional & Ventral Hernias. These hernias occur after a previous abdominal surgery at the site of the prior
Minnesota Hernia Surgery
Make an appointment to discuss your hernia surgery with Dr. Koeplin today. With decades of experience and over 4000 successful hernia operations performed in Minnesota, Dr. Koeplin offers the skilled, compassionate care you deserve. Dr. Koeplin has clinic locations in Maplewood and Woodbury, but serves patients throughout the Twin Cities Metro area. Schedule your appointment through our online contact form, or by giving us a call at 651.224.1347.
