Umbilical Hernia Treatment in Noida, Delhi, India

Overview

An umbilical hernia develops when part of the intestine or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles around the navel. While it is most commonly seen in newborns, it can also develop in adults due to factors such as increased abdominal pressure, obesity, heavy lifting, or pregnancy. The hernia may become more noticeable when coughing, crying, or straining, and in some cases, it can cause discomfort or pain. If left untreated, there is a risk of the hernia becoming incarcerated or strangulated, which can lead to more serious complications requiring prompt medical attention.

Umbilical Hernia Symptoms

Common symptoms of an umbilical hernia include:

• A noticeable bulge near the belly button
• Pain or pressure at the affected area, especially during movement or straining
• A noticeable swelling or bulge in the abdomen that becomes more pronounced when coughing, straining, or standing for long periods.
• Discoloration of the bulge
• Nausea, vomiting, or constipation
• Severe abdominal pain (can also be a symptom of a hiatal hernia)

Causes of Umbilical Hernia

In infants, umbilical hernias develop when the abdominal muscles fail to fully close after birth, leading to the protrusion of fatty tissue or part of the intestine. While this gap usually closes naturally, it can persist in some cases.

In adults, umbilical hernias can arise due to various factors, such as increased pressure on the abdominal wall or weakened muscles.

• Obesity: Increased pressure on the abdominal wall
• Multiple pregnancies: Frequent strain on the abdominal muscles
• Previous abdominal surgery
• Persistent coughing: Increases pressure on the abdominal cavity
• Excess fluid: The accumulation of excess fluid within the abdominal cavity can raise intra-abdominal pressure, potentially weakening the abdominal wall and contributing to the formation of a hernia.

Umbilical Hernia Diagnosis

Diagnosing an umbilical hernia typically begins with your doctor reviewing your medical history and current symptoms. A detailed physical examination is then conducted, during which you may be asked to stand, cough, or apply pressure to help reveal any visible bulge. If the hernia is not clearly detectable or if further evaluation is needed, imaging tests like ultrasound, X-ray, CT scan, or MRI may be recommended to accurately assess its size, location, and severity.

Treatment Options for Umbilical Hernia

While many infant umbilical hernias close on their own by age 3 or 4, surgery is often necessary if the hernia doesn’t resolve or continues to grow. Treatment options include:

1. Open Hernia Repair
This traditional surgical technique involves creating an incision near the base of the belly button to gently reposition the protruding tissue into the abdominal cavity. The surgeon then reinforces the weakened area by stitching it and may insert a surgical mesh to provide added support and reduce the risk of recurrence. The entire procedure is carried out under general anesthesia to ensure patient comfort and safety.

2. Laparoscopic Hernia Repair (Keyhole Surgery)
Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive technique that involves making several small incisions through which a thin tube equipped with a camera, called a laparoscope, is inserted. This enables the surgeon to observe the hernia on a high-definition monitor, allowing for accurate repair with small surgical instruments.  Unlike traditional open surgery, laparoscopic hernia repair offers significant benefits, including faster recovery times, reduced pain, and minimal scarring. Patients often experience less post-operative discomfort and are able to return to their normal activities much sooner. This technique is highly effective for various types of hernias and is preferred due to its reduced risk of complications and shorter hospital stays.

Risks and Complications

In infants, complications from an umbilical hernia are rare but can occur if the hernia becomes incarcerated (trapped), causing the intestine or fatty tissue to become stuck and leading to restricted blood flow. This can result in tissue damage, gangrene, and a risk of life-threatening infection, requiring immediate surgical intervention to prevent severe consequences. While most umbilical hernias in infants close on their own within the first year, surgery may be needed if the hernia doesn’t resolve or causes discomfort.

In adults, several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing an umbilical hernia, such as obesity, chronic coughing, heavy lifting, and multiple pregnancies. These factors raise intra-abdominal pressure, which can weaken the abdominal wall and contribute to hernia development. Recurrence is more likely if post-operative care instructions are not followed or if high-risk behaviors continue. However, with proper medical care and lifestyle adjustments, the chances of complications are minimal, and laparoscopic surgery remains a highly effective treatment option with a low risk of long-term issues.

Recovery After Umbilical Hernia Repair

In infants, most umbilical hernias close naturally by age 3 or 4, with no need for surgery. In adults, after surgical treatment, the outlook is generally positive, with no recurrence of the hernia after successful repair. Post-surgery discomfort is usually mild & subsides within 1-2 weeks.

After hernia surgery, patients should adhere to the following recovery guidelines to ensure optimal healing:

• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous physical activity for several weeks to allow proper healing.
• Include plenty of fiber-rich foods in your diet to support smooth digestion and reduce the risk of straining during bowel movements.
• Quit smoking to improve tissue repair and reduce the risk of complications.
• Attend regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your recovery progress and address any concerns or complications that may arise.

By following these guidelines, patients can promote a smoother recovery and reduce the likelihood of post-operative issues.

Why Choose Metro Hospital for Umbilical Hernia Treatment?

At Metro Hospital, we specialize in advanced umbilical hernia treatments, including both open and laparoscopic surgical options. Our highly skilled surgeons and dedicated medical staff are committed to providing the best possible care to ensure quick recovery and long-term results. We prioritize patient safety, comfort, and well-being throughout every step of the treatment process.