Your Hernia Surgery Is in Good Hands at Holy Cross
If you are suffering from pain related to a hernia, our team of experts at Holy Cross Hospital in Germantown can help. Our hernia surgery program treats patients with hernias ranging from the simplest to the most complex. We can help even after prior surgeries have failed.
The hallmarks of our hernia surgery program include:
- Advanced diagnosis and treatment of hernias
- High-quality, patient-centered care using evidence-based practices and the latest technology, including minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery and robotic surgery, to ensure safety and the best possible outcomes for patients
- Multidisciplinary team of experts to serve each patient’s needs with an individualized care plan
Hernias affect people in different ways, but complex hernias are often long-standing issues that impact your quality of life.
Hernias can lead to a noticeable bulge in the abdominal area, along with pain and discomfort. A tear or weakness in the abdominal muscles allows internal organs to protrude. The most common hernia locations are the groin, navel, or the site of a previous surgical incision. A hernia produces symptoms that can intensify after standing for long periods of time or straining your abdominal muscles.
Hernia Risk Factors
Hernias may stem from conditions that are present at birth that are further weakened with age or injury. Other risk factors include:
- Previous surgeries
- Chronic cough
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Heavy lifting that causes strain
- Urinary or bowel movements that cause strain
- Steroid use, or other medications
- Family history
Hernia Conditions We Treat
Our expert physicians treat the following conditions:
Initial and Recurrent Abdominal Wall Hernias
- Inguinal (groin) hernia, which is the most common type and more prevalent in men
- Umbilical hernia, which occurs near the navel and is seen in both children and adults
- Femoral (groin) hernia, which is more common in women, with bulging in the groin, upper thigh, or labia
- Ventral (incisional) hernia, which often results from a surgical procedure
Complex Abdominal Hernias
- Giant abdominal wall tears/weakness
- Enterocutaneous fistula
Diagnosis & Treatment
When you meet with your physician for an evaluation, he or she will perform a physical exam. Your physician may order a CT scan or laboratory tests, such as blood or urine tests, to support an accurate diagnosis and the creation of your individualized treatment plan.
If you and your physician determine that hernia surgery is the best option for treatment, procedures may include:
- Primary suture repair, which creates a seam to close the hernia
- Minimally invasive (laparoscopic or robotic) repair. By inserting surgical mesh through small incisions, tension and pain are reduced and the hernia is less likely to reoccur. Traditional, or open, hernia repair is also available using mesh.
- Abdominal wall reconstruction. Our general surgeons and plastic surgeons work together during surgery to address large, complex hernias. The muscles of the abdomen are mobilized to allow the hernia to be closed. If excess skin is present, it may be removed during the repair surgery as well.
Recovery from Hernia Surgery in Comfort
Most hernia procedures are done on an outpatient basis. From registration through recovery, our team will keep you and your loved ones informed as you progress through surgery.
If you do require a hospital stay, Holy Cross Germantown Hospital offers private patient rooms and around-the-clock visiting hours. Other hospital amenities include room-service style meal delivery, free Internet access, cable television, and a sleeper sofa to accommodate an overnight guest.
To find a physician or to make an appointment, call 301-754-8800.