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Advanced Robotic Hernia Surgery
Dr. Pakula uses advanced robotic technology for the treatment and repair of inguinal (groin) hernias, femoral hernias, umbilical (belly button) hernias, abdominal hernias, hiatal hernias, epigastric hernias, Spigelian hernias, ventral and incisional hernias and parastomal hernias in men and women. She is also specializing in Complex Abdominal Wall Reconstruction.
Inguinal Hernias occur in the groin area on either side of the pubic bone. Femoral Hernias occur in the groin and upper thigh area. Ventral Hernias typically occur in the midline of the abdomen. Umbilical Hernias occur at the belly button. Incisional Hernias occur at the site of a previous surgical scar where the abdominal wall has become weak and a hole has developed. Parastomal Hernias are hernias that occur at the site of an ostomy. Recurrent Hernias have been fixed before but have come back in the same location. There are other rare hernias such as Lumbar or Flank Hernias, Spigelian Hernias, and Diaphragm Hernias to name a few. Any type of hernia can occur in both men or women.
Symptoms & Treatment
Hernias are opening in the abdomen that can allow intestine, fatty tissue to protrude through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. This often leads to a bulge that can be seen or felt. Some hernias may not cause pain or other symptoms but can be found by your doctor on physical exam.
Complications of a Hernia
Pain
Most hernias enlarge over time and if not repaired surgically may put pressure on surrounding tissue and cause pain.
Incarcerated Hernia
When soft tissue or intestine becomes stuck in the hernia hole in the abdominal wall or groin, the bulge may not be able to be reduced or pushed back in. This can result in blockage of the intestines, severe pain, vomiting and inability to have a bowel movement
Strangulated Hernia
This occurs when the intestine is stuck or incarcerated in the hernia and the blood flow gets cut off to the trapped part of the intestine. This can lead to the death of the intestine and can be life-threatening if not treated with surgery immediately.
Treatment
Hernias are opening in the abdomen that can allow intestine, fatty tissue to protrude through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. This often leads to a bulge that can be seen or felt. Some hernias may not cause pain or other symptoms but can be found by your doctor on physical exam.