What does the treatment look like?

An umbilical hernia is a situation in which there is a displacement of organs or tissues outside the abdominal cavity, which is where they should be. In the case of an umbilical hernia, these are usually the intestines and peritoneum, resulting in a characteristic protrusion in the umbilical region.

Umbilical hernia surgery involves moving organs and tissues that have escaped into the abdominal cavity. The type of surgery depends primarily on the size and health of the patient, while most often it is performed under general anesthesia. The duration of the procedure is about 1-2 hours. The surgeon makes a semicircular incision around the umbilicus, after which he separates the hernia sac or incises it to free the organs. During the procedure, the peritoneum is also sutured, and a special mesh is implanted to strengthen the hernia site and protect it from another hernia. The final stage of the operation is the suturing of the belly button so as to achieve a natural appearance of the abdomen.

How to prepare for the procedure?

Umbilical hernia surgery is a planned procedure, so it requires consultation and the performance of ordered tests. A week before the surgery, anticoagulants and some pain medications should be discontinued - detailed recommendations will be given by the specialist.

What to do after the procedure?

The recovery period after umbilical hernia surgery lasts from 2 to 6 months. During the first few weeks, the main thing to do is to take proper care of the wound, changing the dressing regularly and following hygiene rules. The patient is also instructed on safe position changes, especially when standing up and sitting down, as well as the need for proper stabilization when coughing or using the toilet. Sometimes it is necessary to follow a prescribed diet. In addition, physical exertion and heavy lifting should be avoided during the first few months.

What are the contraindications to the procedure?

Umbilical hernia surgery in adults is a necessity, while there are also some contraindications to it, among which we mention:

• Inflammation of the skin or subcutaneous tissue;
• ischemic heart disease;
• cardiac arrhythmia;
• hypertension;
• circulatory insufficiency;
• anemia;
• diabetes.