Hernia surgery Gold Coast & Northern Rivers
Hernias are common medical conditions that occur when internal tissue or organs push through a weak spot in the body’s muscular wall. On this page, we will explore the different types, including hiatus, femoral, inguinal, umbilical, and incisional hernias. We will explain what they are and how they can be treated.
Quick links
Hernia explained
What are hernias?
Hernias occur when an organ or internal tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscle wall just below your skin. As a result, you can see a bulge or lump under your skin.
Hernias are very common and they can occur in different parts of the body. Here’s an overview of the different types of hernia:
Femoral hernia
Inguinal hernia
When a part of the intestine or abdominal tissue pushes through a weak spot in the lower abdominal wall, near the inguinal canal.
Umbilical hernia
When a section of the intestine or abdominal tissue protrudes through a weak area in or around the belly button.
Incisional hernia
When tissue or organs protrude through a previous surgical incision in the abdominal wall.
Hiatus hernia:
When the upper part of the stomach bulges into the chest through a weak spot in the diaphragm, causing symptoms like acid reflux and heartburn.
Hernia surgeon Gold Coast & Northern Rivers
How are hernias treated?
Most hernias will require surgery. The primary goal of hernia surgery is to place the protruding tissue or organ back in its normal position and repair the weakened area.
Although some small hernias can occasionally be ‘reduced’ or ‘pushed back in’ most hernias will require hernia repair. Protruding internal tissue or organs can become strangulated – in other words, lose blood supply – which is an emergency situation.
Laparoscopic hernia repair
During laparoscopic surgery, three or four small incisions are made in your abdomen. A laparoscope, which is a thin tube with a camera on the end, is inserted in one of the incisions to provide a clear view of the surgical area. Then, surgical instruments are inserted through the other incisions to repair the hernia. The visible lump is gently pushed back in its position and the weakened area is repaired to prevent recurrence.
Open hernia repair
In open surgery, a single large incision is made in the abdomen, allowing direct access to the herniated area. The protruding bulge is gently pushed back in place and the weakened area is repaired.
Whether we choose open or laparoscopic surgery depends on the size and complexity of your hernia and your overall health. Laparoscopic hernia repair often has a quicker recovery time and less postoperative pain compared to open hernia repair. In some cases, open hernia repair may be necessary. If the hernia is large, complex or there are other health complications, open hernia repair may be recommended.
Hernia surgery Gold Coast, Lismore, Byron Bay & Ballina
Core Specialist Group for hernia repair
At Core Specialist Group, your health and comfort are our highest priority. If you have been told you may have a hernia, and are looking for compassionate and exceptional patient care, please get in touch with our friendly team. With consulting rooms in Tugun, Lismore (NSW), Ballina (NSW) and Byron Bay (NSW) we will make you feel at ease in the lead-up to your consultation and possible surgery.