To understand the nature of a hernia, we can compare it to a tire that has an inner tube. In our body, we have compartments or cavities similar to the structure of a tire, which are covered by an external wall made up of muscles and fascia. These walls have holes that allow the passage of blood vessels and other structures.

 

Like the inner tube of the tire, the interior of these cavities is lined by a membrane called the peritoneum.

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Symptoms of a hernia include a bulge under the skin and pain when straining, coughing, pushing, or stretching. If a hernia is not treated, it can enlarge and become a serious complication. The contents of the hernial sac can slip back into place without immediate danger, but it is ideal to correct it surgically.

 

If the contents of the sac cannot return, it is considered a non-reducible hernia. In this case, the tissue or intestine can become trapped, seriously disrupting digestion and increasing the risk of intestinal obstruction.

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It is essential to visit a doctor when a hernia is suspected in order to receive a proper diagnosis before problems become serious complications. Hernias can be diagnosed with a physical exam, but some can be difficult to detect if they don't bulge.

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The main reasons why early surgery is recommended for hernias are pain or discomfort, risk of complications, incarceration (contents trapped in the hernia wall), strangulation (loss of blood supply due to prolonged incarceration) and the fact that hernias do not heal on their own and can increase in size over time.

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The best treatment option is surgery, preferably elective rather than urgent. Laparoscopic surgery, performed through small incisions, allows the surgeon to see inside the body while operating, reducing pain and speeding recovery. In addition, it offers excellent cosmetic results and is performed without tension and with mesh placement.