The Hernia Center

The Hernia Center at Palms of Pasadena Hospital specializes in the repair of all types of hernias; groin, abdominal, umbilical and incisional. Our surgeons have completed thousands of hernia repairs, and their extensive experience provide patients with the most up-to date surgical techniques available, allowing them to return to normal activities as soon as possible.

Each patient is evaluated to determine the type of hernia repair procedure that will be most effective for them. Laparoscopic or conventional hernia repair techniques will be used as part of an approach tailored for each individual.

Types of Hernias

A hernia is a hole or defect in the abdominal muscle wall which allows internal tissue to protrude, usually creating a visible bulge. This hole can occur anywhere the muscle wall is weak or subject to strain, such as around the umbilicus and groin area, and also where there is scar tissue from previous surgery. A hernia may or may not cause pain. Depending on the size and location of the hernia, however, there is a risk of complications including having intestinal tissue trapped in the hernia. And hernias do not go away on their own; surgery is the only treatment.

• Inguinal hernia, the most common type of hernia, occurs in the groin area
• Ventral hernias are less common than inguinal hernias, occurring outside the inguinal area of the abdomen in the epigastrium
• Incisional (surgical) hernia occurs near scar tissue from a previous abdominal surgery
• Hiatal hernias occur in the diaphragm, the large muscle separating the chest cavity and the abdomen
• Femoral hernia occurs in the low groin and is more common in women
• Umbilical hernia occurs through the belly button
• Epigastic hernia is a small but painful bulge midway between the umbilicus and chest

Types of Hernia Repair

Our specialists offer comprehensive care for hernia patients, including a thorough evaluation to determine the type of hernia repair procedure that will be most effective for each individual. They are experienced in performing a full range of surgical repair procedures.

• Abdominal wall reconstruction – For large and complicated hernias, or those patients with recurrent hernias that result in excessive scar tissue and mesh material, advanced techniques are used to rebuild the musculature of the abdominal wall, often with the aid of biological prosthetics.
• Inguinal & femoral hernia repair – Various techniques are used, including open repair and laparoscopic repairs, with and without mesh. Laparoscopic surgery, when appropriate, is usually less painful, decreases the risk of infection and results in faster healing with smaller incisions.
• Ventral hernia repair – Often this is performed using an open approach and prosthetic mesh in order to improve the contour of the abdominal wall. In some cases, laparoscopic surgery may be performed, although not everyone is a good candidate for this small-incision approach. Our goal is to use the latest surgical approaches for the most effective repair possible, while reducing the risk of hernia recurrence. For more information, please call 877-734-9355.