A hernia is a condition in which internal organs bulge out of the area where they should normally be. An organ (or part of an organ) can protrude into the area under the skin, into the intermuscular space, or into internal cavities.

Types of hernias correspond to the anatomical areas where they form: intervertebral hernia, inguinal hernia, femoral hernia, umbilical hernia or internal hernia.

Ruptures usually occur where the abdominal wall has natural weak points. If it is then additionally stressed by various factors, further cracks or holes can develop. Thus, abdominal wall hernias are always based on a weakness of the connective tissue. In addition, obesity, nicotine and excessive alcohol consumption, various chronic diseases and extreme stress, among other things, increase the risk of developing an abdominal wall hernia. 

Many hernias are manifested by a protrusion or swelling in the affected abdominal area, and in some cases there is also pain. In other cases, abdominal wall hernias cause no or hardly any discomfort and are not a burden for those affected. However, since hernias do not heal spontaneously, become increasingly larger if left untreated, and there is always a risk of dangerous incarceration, surgery is advisable with a few exceptions.

In addition to the various abdominal wall hernias, the diaphragmatic hernia is a frequent diagnosis in hernia surgery.  The spectrum also includes the surgical treatment of rectus diastases - a deviation of the straight abdominal muscles, which occurs particularly after pregnancies and often in combination with hernias.

Modern procedures, state of the art-techniques and highly specialized surgeons at Helios ensure safe and gentle hernia operations.