Incisional Hernia

It arises post-laparotomy or any abdominal incision when the wound fails to heal properly, affecting 15-20% of cases due to infection, hematoma, or seroma. Factors like obesity, smoking, diabetes, chronic cough, constipation, pregnancy, or early heavy lifting increase intra-abdominal pressure, delaying muscle recovery. Even minor procedures like appendectomy carry risk if the technique falters.

Symptoms to Monitor

A visible bulge appears near the scar, worsening with standing, coughing, or straining, and may reduce when lying down. Pain, aching, burning, nausea, vomiting, constipation, or thin stools signal issues; redness, fever, or rapid heartbeat indicate infection or strangulation emergencies needing urgent care.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Physical exams confirm the bulge's reducibility; CT scans rule out complications. Watchful waiting suits small asymptomatic ones, but surgery—open, laparoscopic, or robotic with mesh—repairs most, often outpatient with 2-4 week recovery, avoiding lifts over 10 pounds initially.