Recurrent incisional hernia

Need to know

• What are the symptoms of recurrent incisional hernia? icon plus

  Recurrent incisional hernias generally cause few symptoms. You may notice a lump or bulge in your abdomen where you’ve had previous surgery.
  
  Sometimes you may experience some pain or discomfort, a burning or aching sensation where the hernia pokes through particularly if they are straining, lifting or exercising.
  
  As with all hernias, they can sometimes cause severe pain and vomiting. This happens if the hernia strangulates (when fatty tissue or parts of the bowel get caught in the hernia). Emergency surgery is always needed to solve this problem.

• How is a recurrent hernia diagnosed? icon plus

  Your consultant will be able to identify if you have a recurrent incisional hernia by examining your lump and the affected area where surgery took place.
  
  It may be necessary to carry out an ultrasound scan to confirm your diagnosis. 
  
  The following factors may be taken into consideration before any treatment options are recommended:

  • The risk of strangulation (when fatty tissue or parts of the bowel get caught in the hernia)
  • If your symptoms are changing or the hernia is getting bigger
  • The effect the hernia is having on your day-to-day life
  • Your health in general

• Potential treatment options icon plus

  It is possible to treat the condition but further repair procedures are more difficult than the first. The procedure involves a general anaesthetic.
  
  Surgical options include:

  • Keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery. 
  • Open surgery.