Ventral hernia occurs when part of the contents of the abdominal cavity- most often a piece of intestine-protrudes through the cavity and into the abdominal wall (upper left image). Normally, the muscles and tissues that line the cavity keep the organs inside. Incisional hernias are most often caused by a defect in the wall due to surgery.
Usually you doctor can tell you if you have a ventral hernia.
A ventral hernia may be cause by weakened muscle or scar from a previous surgery (incisional hernia).
A CT scan may be helpful is the diagnosis.
The type of surgical repair depends on the size of the hernia.
Ventral hernias can be repair tradionally or laparoscopically (see picture).
People with smaller hernias can go home the same day, while those with large ventral hernias usually stay overnight in the hospital.
Recovery depends of the size of the hernia and type of surgery performed.
Light activity usually begins within the first week.
Full activity in 2-4 weeks.