Video - Abdominal hernias

A hernia is a protrusion of an organ or part of it through a weakened area in the wall that normally holds it in place. Abdominal wall hernias are a protrusion of the abdominal content through a defect in the abdominal wall. There exist various types of abdominal wall hernia, but ventral hernias are more common than other types and occur when the intestine, bladder, or other abdominal organs push through the abdomen wall.

Symptoms may include pain, swelling, and a feeling of weakness or pressure in the abdomen, with some of the rare but serious complications being incarceration or strangulation of an organ, mostly the bowels. A doctor can usually diagnose a hernia by examining the area and may order additional tests if needed. Abdominal wall hernias are generally treated with surgical repair of the defect.