Ventral hernia

Ventral hernia occurs as a lump in the front abdominal muscles, also in sites of former abdominal incisions, it's a common side effect of abdominal surgeries, it contains tissue protruding from inside the abdomen, risk for acute complications (incarceration or strangulation) is higher in incisional hernias, specially after multiple abdominal surgeries or previous repairs.

Symptoms depend on the site of the hernia, it can be subxifoid, epigastric, ventral or suprapubic, usually causes pain, it gets bigger with activities that contract the front abdominal wall muscles (coughing, strain, lift heavy things, and it may shrink at relaxing or lying down).

Diagnosis is made in the office when your doctor palpates the hernia sac and the hernia defect, ultrasound can also be performed in the office, and sometimes is necessary to have a CT- scan for an accurate operative planning.

Surgery is mandatory, and it can be performed by open or laparoscopic approach, a mesh is strongly recommended to lower the risk hernia recurrence. 

Hernia complications: Acute bowel occlusion, incarceration or strangulation are common complications of this type of hernia.

Travel after surgery: Depends on the type of hernia, and surgery performed, but most of the time, you can travel 7 days after surgery, sometimes is necessary to place a drain at the time of surgery, the drain should be removed before your departure.