Ventral hernia is a broad term for hernias that develop in the front of the abdominal wall. They include primary defects such as epigastric, umbilical, and spigelian hernias, as well as incisional hernias that occur at the site of prior surgery.
Symptoms
- A visible or palpable bulge on the abdomen
- Aching or pressure that worsens with activity
- Bulge that disappears when lying down in many cases
- Changes in bowel habits in larger hernias
Diagnosis
Many ventral hernias are diagnosed on physical examination. Imaging — most often a CT scan — is useful to characterize complex hernias, assess size, identify contents, and plan repair.
Treatment
Small, minimally symptomatic ventral hernias may be observed in select patients. Larger or symptomatic hernias generally benefit from surgical repair with mesh. Complex ventral hernias — particularly large incisional hernias with loss of domain — may require specialized techniques such as component separation and care at a high-volume hernia center.
Related reading
- Can a Hernia Heal Without Surgery?
- What Happens If a Hernia Is Left Untreated?
- Hernia Mesh Explained
- Open vs Laparoscopic vs Robotic Hernia Repair
Educational disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual recommendations require consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.