Hernia: Causes, treatments, and diagnosis
Hernias can form in natural, weakened membranes or in acquired injuries. They arise under the influence of increased internal pressure. They do not always require surgery. If there is no pain, the hernia is small, and does not give any symptoms, then you can postpone the decision about the operation.
What is a hernia
A hernia is the movement of an organ or part of it outside the cavity in which it is usually located.
How to recognize a hernia
As a rule, the diagnosis is made on the basis of a physical examination. Ultrasound examination (ultrasound) is performed to visualize the contents of the hernial sac. It also allows you to determine the anatomical conditions and make a decision to the doctor about the operation.
In the case of an internal hernia, for example, a hernia of the esophageal orifice of the diaphragm, an X-ray examination using contrast media is performed for diagnosis, as well as other visual studies, for example, tomography.
Computed tomography and MRI are also necessary for the diagnosis of spinal hernia
Hernia treatment
The only effective way to treat a hernia is surgery. Internal hernias, if they are asymptomatic, may even be unnoticed. Abdominal hernias are often visible to the naked eye and are felt by the doctor during the examination. The main argument that should push the patient to surgery is the risk of developing a condition dangerous to health and life.
The procedures for the treatment of hernia include classical operations, laparoscopic and endoscopic. In the operation, the classical method uses various artificial materials in the form of nets or the patient’s own tissue.
No technique is so perfect as to completely eliminate the risk of hernia recurrence. There is less risk of recurrence after surgery with implantation of plastic inserts than with procedures when only the patient’s own tissues are used.
