Abdominal Wall Hernias

Columbia Surgical Specialists - General Surgery provides surgical repair of simple and complex abdominal wall hernias. These include umbilical, epigastric, and incisional hernias.

Incisional hernias occur at the site of a previous surgical incision and can be challenging to repair and often require specialized techniques. They develop when the abdominal wall fails to heal properly after surgery, creating a weakness through which tissue can protrude.

Our evaluation includes a thorough assessment of the hernia size, location, and characteristics, as well as review of any previous surgical history. We assess the quality of surrounding tissue and use imaging studies such as CT scans to better understand hernia anatomy. We discuss the various repair options and develop a personalized treatment plan based on the hernia characteristics and patient factors.

We perform both open and minimally invasive hernia repair, with the approach tailored to each patient's specific situation. For larger or complex hernias, we may use component separation techniques or other advanced reconstructive methods. We typically use mesh reinforcement to provide strength and reduce the risk of recurrence. Our surgeons are experienced in managing complex cases including large hernias, multiple previous repairs, and cases with loss of abdominal domain.