Epigastric hernias occur in the midline in the upper abdomen between the rib cage and the umbilicus. They are usually composed of fat and rarely containing abdominal organs. Epigastric hernias can develop as a result of an increase in intra-abdominal pressure form lifting or straining. They can also be congenital in origin.
Epigastric hernias are usually asymptomatic. However, they are also known to cause pain with straining. If an epigastric is not treated it may increase in size and may become strangulated or incarcerated. At the Hernia Center of Southern California, we repair epigastric hernias using the “tension free” mesh technique.
Epigastric hernia repair can be preformed as a one-day, outpatient procedure by our hernia surgeons and is performed under a local anesthesia with sedation. During epigastric hernia repair, the mesh is placed underneath the weakness or hole in the abdominal wall. The mesh is tailored to extend past the outside edges of each individual hernia. This ensures the mesh will act as a sturdy platform for all new tissue growth and also as a support for the existing abdominal wall muscle. Muscles are never cut and nothing is sutured together to cause tension. The polypropylene mesh is thin and incredibly flexible and throughout the healing process will incorporate itself safely into your muscle.
Dr. Albin is a well recognized expert in epigastric hernia repair. The Hernia Center of Southern California specializes in all types of advanced open and laparoscopic hernia surgery. His surgical practice is limited to the diagnosis and treatment of hernias. He is truly the hernia specialist. Patients see Dr. Albin from Los Angeles, Orange County, Riverside, San Bernardino and San Diego Counties as well as throughout the United States. The Albin Tension Free Mesh Technique is recognized worldwide.
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