Spigelian Hernia Symptoms

Rehan Qaiser: Spigelian Hernia Repair

When the intestines protrude through a weakness in the abdominal wall muscle fibers and form an empty sac, it is called as spigelian hernia. This hernia often appears below the last line of the 'six pack' muscles. It is also known as lateral ventral hernia that occurs through the spigelian fascia. This hernia develops in the region where the lateral abdominal muscles fuse and form lateral rectus sheath. Both sexes are equally affected with this type of hernia and is more commonly observed in people over the age of 50 years. These hernias are commonly exhibited on the right side of the stomach than the left side. It is very important to carry out spigelian hernia repair. This is because if left untreated, it could lead to strangulation of the intestines leading to bowel obstruction. The symptoms of lateral ventral hernia are often missed. This is because the hernia develops between the abdominal wall muscles and do not push through the layers of fat. Thus, it does not cause any kind of swelling or lump. This makes the condition remain undetected for a long period of time as the patient does not realize he/she is suffering from a hernia. The spigelian hernia symptoms are similar to other abdominal problems like - It is very important to carry out lateral ventral hernia repair as it may increase in size with time. This makes it very difficult to push back the hernia in place. It will cause damage to the colon or the bowel. If the intestines are strangulated, it will lead to reduction in blood supply that causes the organ to die. In order to avoid such grave complications, one needs to undergo treatment for spigelian hernia. The only treatment for spigelian hernia is surgery. The surgery helps in correcting the weakened wall of the abdomen. The surgeon will place a polypropylene or steel mesh over the weak abdominal wall. This mesh is surgically sewn to bridge the gap between the hole or weak wall in the abdomen muscles. As the muscles heal with time, the mesh is firmly integrated within the body. There is little or no tension in the abdomen and the hernia recurrence rate in this case is very low. Staples are used to secure the mesh within the abdominal wall for better permanent healing. There are basically two types of lateral ventral hernia repair surgeries that can be performed. These include laparoscopic hernia repair and open hernia surgery. During the open hernia surgery, the patient is given general anesthesia.

General Surgery, Principles and International Practice

Pelvic pain, diagnosis and management

Nyhus and Condon's hernia

Abdominal wall hernias, principles and management

Ultrasound of the gastrointestinal tract