Types of Hernia - what sort of hernia do I have?

There are many different types of hernia.

Hernias are classified in several ways. 

These classifications include:  the location, the size, and the complexity of the hernia. 

Most hernias can be corrected, or at least improved. 

Some hernias are not correctable either for 'hernia-related' reasons, unsuitability of a patient for surgery, or both. 

More frequent hernias

  • Inguinal hernia 
  • Femoral hernia
  • Paraumbilical / umbilical hernia
  • Incisional hernia
  • Parastomal hernia


Less frequent hernias

  • Obturator hernia
  • Lumbar hernia
  • Traumatic hernia
  • Perineal hernia
  • Spigelian hernia
  • Thoraco-abdominal hernia
  • Pre-vascular groin hernia
  • Suprapubic hernia

Less complicated hernias

  • Smaller hernias
  • No previous attempts at repair


More complicated hernias

  • Larger hernias
  • Previously repaired hernias / previous use of mesh
  • Infected mesh
  • Need for co-existent bowel resection
  • 'Loss of domain' - ie difficulty returning all of the content of a hernia to the abdomen due to a lack of space in the abdomen

Divarication of recti ('rectus diastasis')

Divarication of the rectus muscles is a bulge between the two vertical muscles in the centre of the abdominal wall. 

Generally, it is present from birth or else is noticed after pregnancy

It is not a hernia in the strict sense of the term.

Divarication is not a cause of abdominal pain in its own right. 

Many cases of divarication do not need repair, but certain cases do justify surgery. 


How to book a consultation

Private

https://www.spirehealthcare.com/spire-leeds-hospital/consultants/mr-ian-botterill-c3541447/

Out-patient appointments: 

0113 218 5908    

0113 218 5909

Sec: 0113 218 5668

NHS

  • consult GP
  • obtain referral to Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
  • appointments at St James' University Hospital or Wharfedale General Hospital.