Prevention of Abdominal wall Hernias
|
|
|
Dear Ask The Doctor: I have had 6 abd surgeries resulting in 3 incisional hernia repairs.I now have another hernia.My abd is out of shape from the surgeries, 2 children and crohns disease.I cannot do sit ups due to 2 cervical fusions.My question is whether or not having a tummy tuck along with the hernia repair would help strengthen my muscle wall and help prevent more hernias.I know tucks tighten, but would it help?
Dear Dona: A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) operation is done to reduce the size of the abdominal wall for a more cosmetically pleasing outcome. It can also repair lax muscles in the abdominal wall. Hernias occur because of a weakness in the fascia (thick fibrous layer immediately before muscle). This layer is more important than muscle in preventing hernias. So while a tummy tuck will strengthen your abdominal wall it may not be sufficient to prevent hernias. During the repair of your present incisional hernia your surgeon will use a synthetic mesh for added strength. The use of a mesh is more beneficial than a tummy tuck. |
|
Last Updated ( Tuesday, 23 March 2010 )
|