If a bulging, painful hernia is interfering with your health, it may be time to consider surgery. As an expert in minimally invasive surgical techniques, Andrew J. Rochman, MD, offers comprehensive hernia repair surgery at his practice in Plainview, New York. Dr. Rochman uses the latest technologies to address hernias and repair weakness in the muscle wall. He also provides resources to help you prevent hernias down the road. Find out more about your options for surgically treating hernias by calling the office or by booking a consultation online now.
A hernia develops when one of your organs pushes through a weak spot in the muscle wall that holds it in place. You may get a hernia if you strain during bowel movements or strenuous activities. Some people even develop a hernia because of a chronic cough or as the result of pregnancy.
While they occur most often in the abdomen, you can also develop a hernia in your upper thigh, groin, or belly button. There are several types of hernias, including:
Inguinal hernias are the most common type of hernia that occurs when the intestines push through a tear or weakness in your lower abdomen/groin, an area known as the inguinal canal.
A hiatal hernia develops when a portion of your stomach pushes upward through your diaphragm and into your chest cavity. Hiatal hernias occur most often in older people and can lead to reflux, a condition that causes the contents of your stomach to flow back into your esophagus.
Following abdominal surgery, your risk for an incisional hernia increases. This type of hernia occurs when your intestines push through the surgical incision or scar, or surrounding areas of weak tissue.
In most cases, a hernia isn’t a life-threatening condition, but it can cause symptoms that interfere with your quality of life.
The hallmark symptom of a hernia is a visible bulge in the area where the organ pushes through. You may also experience hernia symptoms like:
Hiatal hernias also cause acid reflux and can make swallowing difficult.
If left untreated, a hernia can become more painful and grow larger. When symptoms become disruptive, or you can’t tolerate the pain, Dr. Rochman may recommend treating the hernia with surgery.
To repair a hernia and reposition the affected organ, Dr. Rochman uses laparoscopic surgical techniques. This requires only small incisions to access the treatment area and make repairs.
In addition to moving the intestines or another organ back into place, Dr. Rochman can also repair the muscle wall with stitches or surgical mesh to prevent another hernia.
If you suspect you have a hernia, schedule a diagnostic appointment with Andrew J. Rochman, MD, to learn more about your options for treatment. You can book a consultation online or by calling the office today.
