Laparoscopic Hiatal Hernia

A hernia develops when the outer layers of the abdominal wall weaken, bulge, or actually rip and allow the intestine into the area. Generally hernias can be repaired laparoscopically; however, sometimes they are opened because they are too large or there is not good visualization.

There are 4 types of hernias

1. Ventral hernia- a hernia in any part of the abdominal wall
2. Inguinal hernia- a hernia in the groin area
3. Incisional hernia- hernia that pushes past a prior surgical incision
4. Hiatal hernia- when the upper portion of the stomach slides into the chest cavity

Most hernia result from a strain on the abdominal muscles, which have been weakened by age or activities such as lifting or straining.

Unless the hernia is strangulated, which means a loop of bowel is caught in the hernia sac, hernia repair typically is an elective operation.

Please note that the hernia is not going to heal by itself and pain may increase in the area of the hernia, and it will usually increase in size over time.