Medical Terminology Combining Forms F - J Flashcards hepatomegaly - enlargement of the liver Term hernia Definition a protrusion of any organ, tissue, or structure through the wall of the cavity in which it is naturally contained Term Definition of HERNIA (Meaning of HERNIA), a 6 Letter Word Definition: Also called rupture, "hernia" is a general term referring to a protrusion of a tissue through the wall of the cavity in which it is normally contained. Abdominal: Protrusion of abdominal contents through a defect in the normally-restraining muscle tissues of the abdominal. Diaphragmatic: A pathological protrusion of abdominal organs through a defect in the diaphragm. Incisional: The protrusion of an organ or tissue through an inadequately healed surgical scar, usually only the inner layers. Inguinal: Protrusion of abdominal contents through a defect in the normally-restraining tissues of the groin. Hernia | definition of hernia by Medical dictionary Hernia | definition of hernia by Medical dictionary Definition Hernia is a general term used to describe a bulge or protrusion of an organ through the structure or muscle that usually contains it.

Description There are many different types of hernias. The most familiar type are those that occur in the abdomen, in which part of the intestines protrude through the abdominal wall. This may occur in different areas and, depending on the location, the hernia is given a different name. An inguinal hernia appears as a bulge in the groin and may come and go depending on the position of the person or their level of physical activity. It can occur with or without pain . In men, the protrusion may descend into the scrotum. Inguinal hernias account for 80% of all hernias and are more common in men. Femoral hernias are similar to inguinal hernias but appear as a bulge slightly lower. They are more common in women due to the strain of pregnancy . A ventral hernia is also called an incisional hernia because it generally occurs as a bulge in the abdomen at the site of an old surgical scar. It is caused by thinning or stretching of the scar tissue, and occurs more frequently in people who are obese or pregnant. An umbilical hernia appears as a soft bulge at the navel (umbilicus).

It is caused by a weakening of the area or an imperfect closure of the area in infants. This type of hernia is more common in women due to pregnancy, and in Chinese and black infants. Some umbilical hernias in infants disappear without treatment within the first year. A hiatal or diaphragmatic hernia is different from abdominal hernias in that it is not visible on the outside of the body. With a hiatal hernia, the stomach bulges upward through the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen (the diaphragm). This type of hernia occurs more often in women than in men, and it is treated differently from other types of hernias. Causes and symptoms Most hernias result from a weakness in the abdominal wall that either develops or that an infant is born with (congenital). Any increase in pressure in the abdomen, such as coughing, straining, heavy lifting, or pregnancy, can be a considered causative factor in developing an abdominal hernia. Obesity or recent excessive weight loss, as well as aging and previous surgery, are also risk factors. Most abdominal hernias appear suddenly when the abdominal muscles are strained.

The person may feel tenderness, a slight burning sensation, or a feeling of heaviness in the bulge. It may be possible for the person to push the hernia back into place with gentle pressure, or the hernia may disappear by itself when the person reclines. Being able to push the hernia back is called reducing it. On the other hand, some hernias cannot be pushed back into place, and are termed incarcerated or irreducible. A hiatal hernia may also be caused by obesity, pregnancy, aging, or previous surgery. About 50% of all people with hiatal hernias do not have any symptoms. If symptoms exist they will include heartburn , usually 30-60 minutes following a meal. There may be some mid chest pain due to gastric acid from the stomach being pushed up into the esophagus. The pain and heartburn are usually worse when lying down. Frequent belching and feelings of abdominal fullness may also be present. Diagnosis Generally, abdominal hernias need to be seen and felt to be diagnosed. Usually the hernia will increase in size with an increase in abdominal pressure, so the doctor may ask the person to cough while he or she feels the area.

Once a diagnosis of an abdominal hernia is made, the doctor will usually send the person to a surgeon for a consultation. Surgery provides the only cure for a hernia through the abdominal wall. With a hiatal hernia, the diagnosis is based on the symptoms reported by the person. The doctor may then order tests to confirm the diagnosis. If a barium swallow is ordered, the person drinks a chalky white barium solution, which will help any protrusion through the diaphragm show up on the x ray that follows. Currently, a diagnosis of hiatal hernia is more frequently made by endoscopy. This procedure is done by a gastroenterologist (a specialist in digestive diseases). During an endoscopy the person is given an intravenous sedative and a small tube is inserted through the mouth, then into the esophagus and stomach where the doctor can visualize the hernia. The procedure takes about 30 minutes and usually causes no discomfort. It is done on an outpatient basis. Treatment Once an abdominal hernia occurs it tends to increase in size. Some patients with abdominal hernias wait and watch for a while prior to choosing surgery.

In these cases, they must avoid strenuous physical activity such as heavy lifting or straining with constipation . They may also wear a truss, which is a support worn like a belt to keep a small hernia from protruding. People can tell if their hernia is getting worse if they develop severe constant pain, nausea and vomiting , or if the bulge does not return to normal when lying down or when they try to gently push it back in place. In these cases they should consult with their doctor immediately. But, ultimately, surgery is the treatment in almost all cases. There are risks to not repairing a hernia surgically. Left untreated, a hernia may become incarcerated, which means it can no longer be reduced or pushed back into place. With an incarcerated hernia the intestines become trapped outside the abdomen. This could lead to a blockage in the intestine. If it is severe enough it may cut off the blood supply to the intestine and part of the intestine might actually die.

When the blood supply is cut off, the hernia is termed "strangulated." Because of the risk of tissue death (necrosis) and gangrene , and because the hernia can block food from moving through the bowel, a strangulated hernia is a medical emergency requiring immediate surgery. Repairing a hernia before it becomes incarcerated or strangulated is much safer than waiting until complications develop. Surgical repair of a hernia is called a herniorrhaphy. The surgeon will push the bulging part of the intestine back into place and sew the overlying muscle back together. When the muscle is not strong enough, the surgeon may reinforce it with a synthetic mesh. Surgery can be done on an outpatient basis. It usually takes 30 minutes in children and 60 minutes in adults. It can be done under either local or general anesthesia and is frequently done with a laparoscope. In this type of surgery, a tube that allows visualization of the abdominal cavity is inserted through a small puncture wound. Several small punctures are made to allow surgical instruments to be inserted. This type of surgery avoids a larger incision. A hiatal hernia is treated differently. Medical treatment is preferred.

Treatments include: avoiding reclining after meals avoiding spicy foods, acidic foods, alcohol, and tobacco eating small, frequent, bland meals eating a high-fiber diet. There are also several types of medications that help to manage the symptoms of a hiatal hernia. Antacids are used to neutralize gastric acid and decrease heartburn. Drugs that reduce the amount of acid produced in the stomach (H2 blockers) are also used. This class of drugs includes famotidine (sold under the name Pepcid), cimetidine (Tagamet), and ranitidine (Zantac). Omeprazole (Prilosec) is not an H2 blocker, but is another drug that suppresses gastric acid secretion and is used for hiatal hernias. Another option may be metoclopramide (Reglan), a drug that increases the tone of the muscle around the esophagus and causes the stomach to empty more quickly. Alternative treatment There are alternative therapies for hiatal hernia. Visceral manipulation, done by a trained therapist, can help replace the stomach to its proper positioning. Other options in addition to H2 blockers are available to help regulate stomach acid production and balance.

One of them, deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), helps balance stomach acid by improving the protective substances that line the stomach and intestines and by improving blood supply to these tissues. DGL does not interrupt the normal function of stomach acid. As with traditional therapy, dietary modifications are important. Small, frequent meals will keep pressure down on the esophageal sphincter. Also, raising the head of the bed several inches with blocks or books can help with both the quality and quantity of sleep. Prognosis Abdominal hernias generally do not recur in children but can recur in up to 10% of adult patients. Surgery is considered the only cure, and the prognosis is excellent if the hernia is corrected before it becomes strangulated. Hiatal hernias are treated successfully with medication and diet modifications 85% of the time. The prognosis remains excellent even if surgery is required in adults who are in otherwise good health. Prevention Some hernias can be prevented by maintaining a reasonable weight, avoiding heavy lifting and constipation, and following a moderate exercise program to maintain good abdominal muscle tone. Resources Books Bare, Brenda G., and Suzanne C. Smeltzer.

Brunner and Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing. 8th ed. Philadelphia: Lippincott-Raven Publishers, 1996. Key terms Endoscopy — A diagnostic procedure in which a tube is inserted through the mouth, into the esophagus and stomach. It is used to visualize various digestive disorders, including hiatal hernias. Herniorrhaphy — Surgical repair of a hernia. Incarcerated hernia — A hernia that can not be reduced, or pushed back into place inside the intestinal wall. Reducible hernia — A hernia that can be gently pushed back into place or that disappears when the person lies down. Strangulated hernia — A hernia that is so tightly incarcerated outside the abdominal wall that the intestine is blocked and the blood supply to that part of the intestine is cut off. hernia [her´ne-ah] the abnormal protrusion of part of an organ or tissue through the structures normally containing it. adj., adj her´nial. A weak spot or other abnormal opening in a body wall permits part of the organ to bulge through.

A hernia may develop in various parts of the body, most commonly in the region of the abdomen (abdominal hernia), and may be either acquired or congenital. An old popular term for hernia is rupture, but this term is misleading because it suggests tearing and nothing is torn in a hernia. Although various supports and trusses can be tried in an effort to contain the hernia, the best treatment for this condition is herniorrhaphy , surgical repair of the weakness in the muscle wall through which the hernia protrudes. Bochdalek's hernia congenital posterolateral diaphragmatic hernia , with extrusion of bowel and other abdominal viscera into the thorax; due to failure of closure of the pleuroperitoneal hiatus. cerebral hernia (hernia ce´rebri) protrusion of brain substance through a defect in the skull. A hernia through the abdominal wall. See: incisional hernia hernia Abnormal protrusion of an organ or tissue through a natural or abnormal opening. Hernias commonly involve a loop of bowel and occur at weak points in the walls of body cavities, especially the abdomen.

They are common in the groin region INGUINAL HERNIA and FEMORAL HERNIA , at the umbilicus ( UMBILICAL HERNIA ) and at the opening in the diaphragm for the gullet (oesophagus). Herniation of the stomach up through the diaphragm is called a HIATUS HERNIA . Hernias that cannot be returned to their normal position are said to be incarcerated and if the blood supply is cut off by swelling they are said to be strangulated. Hernias should be corrected by surgery. External supports (trusses) are not generally satisfactory. Although the great majority of hernias involve displaced bowel, many other structures or tissues can herniate from their normal position. These include part of the brain through the large opening for the spinal cord or through a defect in the skull; muscle tissue through its compartment wall; synovial membrane of a joint through the joint capsule; and the pulpy centre of an intervertebral disc (nucleus pulposus). hernia the abnormal protrusion of part of an internal organ through an aperture in the surrounding structures, most commonly part of the intestine through a defect in the abdominal wall musculature.

Weakness of the muscle may be due to injury or previous surgery; obesity or heavy lifting add to the risk. If the protrusion becomes stuck in the narrow gap (incarcerated hernia) the blood supply may be compromised (strangulated hernia) and surgery is required. Common types of hernia include abdominal, femoral and inguinal. In sport the groin is a common site of pain or discomfort, and the term sportsman's hernia is sometimes used inappropriately for a variety of other conditions that cause it (including musculotendinous injuries and osteitis of the pubic bone). It is important to diagnose accurately the cause of groin pain, as treatment options, including those involving surgery, will differ, and particularly relevant to identify a true hernia, which may be due to a tear in the external oblique muscle for which there are various methods of surgical repair. See also abdominal muscles . hernia, n condition in which a part of the peritoneum or an intestine protrudes through weakened muscles, either of the diaphragm or of the abdominal wall. Hernias are typically classified based on their location. Hernia. , pl. hernias, pl.

herniae (hĕr'nē-ă, -ăz, -ē) Protrusion of a part or structure through the tissues normally containing it. hernia (hur´nēə), n the protrusion of an organ through an abnormal opening in the muscle wall of the cavity that surrounds it. It may be congenital, may result from the failure of certain structures to close after birth, or may be acquired later in life because of obesity, muscular weakness, surgery, or illness. hernia, hiatal, n a protrusion of a portion of the stomach upward through the diaphragm. The condition occurs in approximately 40% of individuals and most people display few, if any, symptoms. The major difficulty is gastroesophageal reflux, which is the backflow of the acid contents of the stomach into the esophagus. hernia, inguinal (direct), n a protrusion of the intestines into an opening between the deep epigastric artery and the edge of the rectus muscle; (indirect) involves the internal inguinal ring and passes into the inguinal canal.

hernia the abnormal protrusion of part of an organ or tissue through the structures normally containing it. In this condition, a weak spot or other abnormal opening in a body wall permits part of the organ to bulge through. A hernia may develop in various parts of the body; most commonly in the region of the abdomen. A layman's term for hernia is rupture. A hernia is either acquired or congenital. Anatomically specific hernias are listed under their individual sites. caudal abdominal h's Medical Terminology Chapter 6 Test Flashcards enteropathy - disease of the intestine Term esophaus Definition one of two tubes in the GI tract that starts at the lowest part of the pharynx and leadsto the stomach Term (GERD) Definition backflow of gastric contents into the esophagus due to a malfunction of the sphincter muscle at the inferior portion of the esophagus GERD may occur whenever pressure in the stomach is greater than that in the esophagus & may be associated with heartburn, esophogitis, hiatal hernia, or chest pain.

Term Fat hernia | Article about fat hernia by The Free Dictionary Fat hernia | Article about fat hernia by The Free Dictionary Also found in: Dictionary , Thesaurus , Medical , Wikipedia . hernia, protrusion of an internal organ or part of an organ through the wall of a body cavity. The hernia is enclosed by a sac formed by the lining of the cavity. It results from a weakness or rupture in the wall, usually where there is already a natural weakness. A hernia may be present at birth or acquired later in life after heavy strain on the musculature. Structurally weak points, e.g., where various blood vessels, nerves, and ducts enter or leave a body cavity, occur in areas such as the lower abdomen, the diaphragm, and the region around the navel. If the protruding structure is caught in the muscular aperture of the wall, the result is a strangulation of the part, or an incarcerated hernia. Prompt medical attention must be received or loss of blood and eventual gangrene may result. A small hernia usually bulges spontaneously under exercise and strain and recedes into the cavity when the subject relaxes.

A truss or external pad held against the weak spot may be used to control a hernia. However, surgery is usually recommended, even for a mild hernia, since it may eventually enlarge. Hernia the protrusion of internal organs or deep tissues from the cavities normally occupied by them into intermuscular tissue or under the skin, without violating the integrity of the integuments. Hernias in man are most frequently abdominal; more rarely, they involve the brain or muscles. Hernias may be classified, according to their origin, as congenital or acquired (for example, postoperative or posttraumatic). Abdominal hernias are classified, according to the place of exit, as inguinal, femoral, umbilical, hernias of the linea alba and the intersectiones tendineae of the rectus abdominus muscle, sciatic, perineal, and internal (diaphragmatic and omental). Peculiarities of anatomical structure (for example, enlarged inguinal or umbilical rings) and anomalies in the development of the abdominal wall lead to the formation of hernia.

When there is a combination of these factors in the region of a weak section or scar of the abdominal wall (the hernial ring), a portion of the parietal peritoneum begins to protrude, forming a hernial sac; afterward the various organs of the abdominal cavity—most often the small intestine and the omentum—may descend into the hernial sac. When organs located in the retroperitoneal space or partly covered by the peritoneum prolapse, the hernial sac is absent. External hernias are diagnosed by the elastic consistency of the protrusion, which is covered by unaltered skin. When the patient is lying down, this hernial protrusion often disappears either independently or upon light pressure, descending into the abdominal cavity. The hernial protrusion gradually enlarges and, sometimes attaining considerable dimensions, may cause discomfort during movement. Organs in the hernial sac and those located immediately under the skin are easily injured.

Prolonged presence of organs in the hernial sac leads to the formation of adhesions between the organs themselves or with the hernial sac, which hinders correction of the hernia, and an irreducible hernia is formed—that is, the hernial protrusion does not return to the abdominal cavity when the patient changes position. A serious complication of hernia is strangulation. During coughing, exertion, or other physical strain intestinal loops may slip into the hernial sac and strangulate in the hernial ring. In such cases attempts to reduce the hernia may lead to serious consequences; these hernias require surgical operation. The treatment of hernia is surgical only. Trusses support the hernia temporarily, but they do not prevent strangulation. Prolonged wearing of a truss, producing constant pressure on the tissues, leads to their atrophy, subsequent weakening of the abdominal wall, and the development of adhesions. To avoid complications, all hernias should be treated surgically. Physical exercise and the treatment where necessary of chronic cough, constipation, emaciation, or obesity help in the prevention of hernia.

It is recommended that pregnant women wear a binder to prevent stretching of the abdominal wall and that the abdomen be massaged after delivery. REFERENCES Herniation | definition of herniation by Medical dictionary Herniation | definition of herniation by Medical dictionary herniation [her″ne-a´shun] abnormal protrusion of an organ or other body structure through a defect or natural opening in a covering membrane, muscle, or bone. (See also hernia .) Herniation syndromes. From Ignatavicius and Workman, 2002. caudal transtentorial herniation transtentorial herniation . central herniation a downward shift of the brainstem and the diencephalon due to a supratentorial lesion, causing Cheyne-Stokes respirations with pinpoint nonreactive pupils. cingulate herniation a shift of the cingulate gyrus to below the falx cerebri. disk herniation (herniation of intervertebral disk) (herniation of nucleus pulposus) herniated disk. tentorial herniation transtentorial herniation . tonsillar herniation protrusion of the cerebellar tonsils through the foramen magnum.

transtentorial herniation downward displacement of medial brain structures through the tentorial notch by a supratentorial mass, exerting pressure on the underlying structures, including the brainstem; this is a life-threatening situation because of pressure on the third cranial nerve, with symptoms including dilated, nonreactive pupils, ptosis, and a decreased level of consciousness. Called also caudal transtentorial herniation , tentorial herniation , and uncal herniation . Protrusion of an anatomic structure (for example, intervertebral disk) from its normal anatomic position. herniation /her·ni·a·tion/ (her″ne-a´shun) abnormal protrusion of an organ or other body structure through a defect or natural opening in a covering, membrane, muscle, or bone. herniation of intervertebral disk herniated disk ; protrusion of the nucleus pulposus or anulus fibrosus of the disk, which may impinge on nerve roots. herniation of nucleus pulposus see h. of intervertebral disk . tentorial herniation downward displacement of the most medially placed cerebral structures through the tentorial notch, caused by a supratentorial mass.

herniation [hur′nē·ā′shən] a protrusion of a body organ or portion of an organ through an abnormal opening in a membrane, muscle, or other tissue. See also hernia, hiatal hernia . herniation A bulging of tissue through an opening in a membrane, muscle or bone. See Brain herniation , Cerebellar herniation , Disk herniation. her·ni·a·tion NORMAL AND HERNIATED SPINAL DISKS herniation of nucleus pulposus Prolapse of the nucleus pulposus of a ruptured intervertebral disk into the spinal canal. This often results in pressure on a spinal nerve, which causes lower back pain that may radiate down the leg, a condition known as sciatica. illustration; Patient care A history is obtained of any unilateral low back pain that radiates to the buttocks, legs, and feet. Almost all herniations occur in the lumbar and lumbosacral region; 8% in the cervical region and only 1% to 2% in the thoracic region.

When herniation follows trauma, the patient may report sudden pain, subsiding in a few days, then a dull, aching sciatic pain in the buttocks that increases with Valsalva's maneuver, coughing, sneezing, or bending. The patient may also complain of muscle spasms accompanied by pain that subsides with rest. The health care professional inspects for a limited ability to bend forward, a posture favoring the affected side, and decreased deep tendon reflexes in the lower extremity. In some patients, muscle weakness and atrophy may be observed. Palpation may disclose tenderness over the affected region. Tissue tension assessment may reveal radicular pain from straight leg raising (with lumbar herniation) and increased pain from neck movement (with cervical herniation). Thorough assessment of the patient's peripheral vascular status, including posterior tibial and dorsalis pedis pulses and skin temperature of the arms and legs, may help to rule out ischemic disease as the cause of leg numbness or pain. The patient is prepared for diagnostic testing by explaining all procedures and expected sensations.

Tests may include radiographic studies of the spine (to show degenerative changes and rule out other abnormalities), myelography (to pinpoint the level of herniation), computed tomography scanning (to detect bone and soft tissue abnormalities and possibly show spinal compression resulting from the herniation), magnetic resonance imaging (to define tissues in areas otherwise obscured by bone), electromyography (to confirm nerve involvement by measuring the electrical activity of muscles innervated by the affected nerves), and neuromuscular testing (to detect sensory and motor loss as well as leg muscle weakness). Pain and its management are often crucial elements of care; levels of pain are monitored, prescribed analgesics are administered, the patient is taught about noninvasive pain relief measures (such as relaxation, transcutaneous nerve stimulation, distraction, heat or ice application, traction, bracing, or positioning), and the patient's response to the treatment regimen is evaluated. During conservative treatment, neurological status is monitored (esp. in the first 2 to 3 weeks after beginning treatment) for signs of deterioration, which may indicate a need for surgery.

Neurovascular assessments of the patient's affected and unaffected extremities (both legs or both arms) are performed to check color, motion, temperature, sensation, and pulses. Vital signs are monitored, bowel sounds are auscultated, and the abdomen is inspected for distention. The disorder and the various treatment options are explained to the patient, including bedrest and pelvic (or cervical) traction, local heat application, a physical therapy designed exercise program, muscle-relaxing and anti-inflammatory drug therapy, injection of local anesthetic and steroid drugs, acupuncture, and surgery. Both the patient and family are encouraged to express their concerns about the disorder; questions are answered honestly, and support and encouragement are offered to assist the patient and family to cope with the frustration of impaired mobility and the discomfort of chronic back pain. The patient is encouraged to perform self-care to the extent that immobility and pain allow, to take analgesics before activities, and to allow adequate time to perform activities at a comfortable pace. Walking and gentle stretching are encouraged as part of daily exercise during conservative therapy. If the patient is restricted to bedrest (or in traction), the patient should increase fluid intake and use incentive spirometry to avoid pulmonary complications.

Skin care and a fracture bedpan are provided if the patient is not permitted bathroom or commode privileges. For patients who require surgery, the patient is prepared physically and psychologically for the specific procedure (laminectomy, spinal fusion, microdiskectomy) and postoperative care regimen, and informed consent is obtained. The patient may donate blood prior to surgery for later autotransfusion as needed. Postoperative Care: Bedrest is enforced for the prescribed period, the blood drainage system in use is managed, and the amount and color of drainage are documented. Any colorless moisture or excessive drainage should be reported; the former may indicate cerebrospinal fluid leakage. A log-rolling technique is used to turn the patient from side to side, and the patient is taught how to turn in this manner when moving about or getting up from bed at home. Analgesics are administered as prescribed, esp. 30 min before early attempts at mobilization. The health care professional assists the patient with prescribed mobilization. Depending on the surgery required, the patient may require a back brace (individually fitted) for a period of time after surgery, and this is carefully fitted and the patient taught about its use.

Before discharge, proper body mechanics are reviewed with the patient: bending at the knees and hips (never the waist), standing straight, and carrying objects close to the body. The patient is advised to lie down when tired and to sleep on the side or back (never on the abdomen) on an extra-firm mattress or a bed board. All prescribed medications are reviewed, including dosage schedules, desired actions, and adverse reactions to be reported. Referral for home health care or physical/occupational therapy may be necessary to help the patient manage activities of daily living. illustration tonsillar herniation The protrusion of the cerebellar tonsils through the foramen magnum. It causes pressure on the medulla oblongata and may be fatal. transtentorial herniation A herniation of the uncus and adjacent structures into the incisure of the tentorium of the brain. It is caused by increased pressure in the cranium. Synonym: uncal herniation Hernia Repair - RightDiagnosis.com Hernia Repair Hernia Repair: Introduction Hernia repair (or Herniorrhaphy) involves surgery to correct an abnormal protrusion of an organ through the wall of the area that normally holds the organ.

This can happen when the outer layers of the abdominal wall weaken, bulge or rip. Most hernia repairs can be done on an outpatient basis using either the conventional open surgery or laparoscopic.... more » Medical Costs Report Other medical terms related to medical conditions and procedures for Hernia Repair include: Herniorrhaphy Incarcerated hernia Hernia Repair: Overview What is Hernia Repair? A hernia is a general term referring to a protrusion of tissue through the wall of the cavity in which it is normally contained. Most areas of the body are separated by tissue walls that are made up of muscle, fascia (a thick band of fibrous tissue), or other structures. Occasionally, a weakness will develop in a tissue wall allowing the contents to push outward or sometimes to push completely through the wall. These weak points tend to develop in similar areas for most people and therefore are usually well understood and easily recognized by a physician. Hernia repair is surgery to correct a hernia and is carried out using a variety of techniques depending on the location and size of the protrusion.... more » Profile: Patient Candidates for Hernia Repair Who are candidates for Hernia Repair?

If the hernia causes significant pain or allows a lot of tissue to protrude through a structural wall, your physician may recommend hernia repair. Some hernias do not cause significant problems and are not treated with surgery. Two types of hernias are especially common: Inguinal Hernias: occur along the front of the pelvis near the abdomen. Inguinal hernias are more common in men and may include symptoms such as pain or a lump in the side of the scrotum. Umbilical Hernias: develop near the umbilicus, which is the medical term for "belly button." They occur because there is a natural thinning of the abdominal wall at the location where our umbilical cord exited our bodies in the womb. Pregnancy or obesity can cause an umbilical hernia or make a small hernia larger. These are the most common types, but hernias can occur almost anywhere in the body.... more » Hernia Repair: Treatment Options What are alternatives to Hernia Repair? Most hernias do not require surgery and are often simply monitored by your physician. Only persistently painful hernias, or those that become enlarged or potentially trap or pinch other structures (like intestines) must be treated surgically....

more » Hernia Repair: Preparing for Surgery How do you prepare for Hernia Repair? Prior to any surgery, your doctor will give you a complete medical examination and evaluate your overall health and your health history. You may be required to get additional tests such as X-rays and lab tests. Your doctor will also review with you the potential risks and benefits of the operation and will ask you to sign a consent form. It is important that you ask questions and be sure you understand the reason for the surgery as well as the risks. It is important that you inform your doctor if you have allergies to any medications, what medications you are taking, and if you have bleeding problems. It is also important to inform your doctor if you are pregnant. Your doctor will also give you specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications. Carefully following these instructions will help your surgery go more smoothly. Depending on the circumstances of your surgery, you may be instructed to do the following: Completely empty your colon and cleanse your intestines prior to surgery. You may be requested to drink clear liquids only for one or several days prior to surgery.

Stop eating or drinking after midnight the night before the operation except medications that your doctor has told you are permissible to take with a sip of water the morning of surgery. Plan for your care and recovery after the operation. Find someone to drive you home after the surgery. Allow for time to rest and try to find people to help you with your day-to-day duties. Stop smoking at least six to eight weeks prior to surgery as smoking delays wound healing. Smokers are also more likely to have breathing problems during surgery. This description includes general information and does not, nor was it intended, to replace the medical advice of your doctor or healthcare provider. If you have questions pertaining to your medical condition, ask your doctor or healthcare provider.... more » Hernia Repair: Recovery After Surgery What is the Hernia Repair recovery process? You will likely go home on the same day of the surgery or the day after surgery.Complete recovery from surgery varies depending on your circumstances. You may recover in two to four weeks or up to six months. You should be careful when you bathe as not to get the incision site wet. You should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for six to eight weeks.... more » Hernia Repair: Costs of Surgery What is the cost of Hernia Repair?

A variety of factors may influence the cost of the surgery. They include: Insurance coverage Location of the facility These factors vary depending on you and your situation The cost of each procedure can vary dramatically based upon age, location, gender, and insurance coverage. HealthGrades provides detailed cost estimates which include the costs of the procedure, drugs, hospital stay, and more. Each cost estimate is easy to understand and provides medical terms you need to know. The detailed cost estimate for Hernia Repair, includes costs for: Hernia repair using a small incision or laparoscopic method. Surgery Cost Report for Hernia Repair Hernia Repair: Find a Surgeon or Specialist Where can I find a Hernia Repair doctor or surgeon? Hernia Repair is typically performed by doctors specializing in General Surgery. Nationally, there are 27988 practicing General Surgeons. HealthGrades offers detailed physician reports to help you find a qualified Hernia Repair doctor or surgeon in your area, which includes disciplinary actions, patient feedback, background information, and more. Start your search now!

Compound hernia | Article about Compound hernia by The Free Dictionary Compound hernia | Article about Compound hernia by The Free Dictionary Related to Compound hernia: strangulated hernia , sliding hernia hernia, protrusion of an internal organ or part of an organ through the wall of a body cavity. The hernia is enclosed by a sac formed by the lining of the cavity. It results from a weakness or rupture in the wall, usually where there is already a natural weakness. A hernia may be present at birth or acquired later in life after heavy strain on the musculature. Structurally weak points, e.g., where various blood vessels, nerves, and ducts enter or leave a body cavity, occur in areas such as the lower abdomen, the diaphragm, and the region around the navel. If the protruding structure is caught in the muscular aperture of the wall, the result is a strangulation of the part, or an incarcerated hernia. Prompt medical attention must be received or loss of blood and eventual gangrene may result. A small hernia usually bulges spontaneously under exercise and strain and recedes into the cavity when the subject relaxes.

A truss or external pad held against the weak spot may be used to control a hernia. However, surgery is usually recommended, even for a mild hernia, since it may eventually enlarge. Hernia the protrusion of internal organs or deep tissues from the cavities normally occupied by them into intermuscular tissue or under the skin, without violating the integrity of the integuments. Hernias in man are most frequently abdominal; more rarely, they involve the brain or muscles. Hernias may be classified, according to their origin, as congenital or acquired (for example, postoperative or posttraumatic). Abdominal hernias are classified, according to the place of exit, as inguinal, femoral, umbilical, hernias of the linea alba and the intersectiones tendineae of the rectus abdominus muscle, sciatic, perineal, and internal (diaphragmatic and omental). Peculiarities of anatomical structure (for example, enlarged inguinal or umbilical rings) and anomalies in the development of the abdominal wall lead to the formation of hernia.

When there is a combination of these factors in the region of a weak section or scar of the abdominal wall (the hernial ring), a portion of the parietal peritoneum begins to protrude, forming a hernial sac; afterward the various organs of the abdominal cavity—most often the small intestine and the omentum—may descend into the hernial sac. When organs located in the retroperitoneal space or partly covered by the peritoneum prolapse, the hernial sac is absent. External hernias are diagnosed by the elastic consistency of the protrusion, which is covered by unaltered skin. When the patient is lying down, this hernial protrusion often disappears either independently or upon light pressure, descending into the abdominal cavity. The hernial protrusion gradually enlarges and, sometimes attaining considerable dimensions, may cause discomfort during movement. Organs in the hernial sac and those located immediately under the skin are easily injured.

Prolonged presence of organs in the hernial sac leads to the formation of adhesions between the organs themselves or with the hernial sac, which hinders correction of the hernia, and an irreducible hernia is formed—that is, the hernial protrusion does not return to the abdominal cavity when the patient changes position. A serious complication of hernia is strangulation. During coughing, exertion, or other physical strain intestinal loops may slip into the hernial sac and strangulate in the hernial ring. In such cases attempts to reduce the hernia may lead to serious consequences; these hernias require surgical operation. The treatment of hernia is surgical only. Trusses support the hernia temporarily, but they do not prevent strangulation. Prolonged wearing of a truss, producing constant pressure on the tissues, leads to their atrophy, subsequent weakening of the abdominal wall, and the development of adhesions. To avoid complications, all hernias should be treated surgically. Physical exercise and the treatment where necessary of chronic cough, constipation, emaciation, or obesity help in the prevention of hernia.

It is recommended that pregnant women wear a binder to prevent stretching of the abdominal wall and that the abdomen be massaged after delivery. REFERENCES Hernia Glossary of Terms with Medical Definitions See the entire definition of Bruise Chronic: In medicine, lasting a long time. A chronic condition is one that lasts 3 months ... See the entire definition of Chronic Cough: A rapid expulsion of air from the lungs, typically in order to clear the lung airwa... See the entire definition of Cough Diagnosis: 1 The nature of a disease; the identification of an illness. 2 A ... See the entire definition of Diagnosis Elective: In medicine, something chosen (elected). An elective procedure is one that is ch... See the entire definition of Elective Elective surgery: Surgery that is subject to choice (election). The choice may be made by ... See the entire definition of Fever Foramen: A natural opening. Although a foramen is usually through bone, it can be an openi... See the entire definition of Foramen Groin: The area where the thigh meets the hip. Heartburn: An uncomfortable feeling of burning and warmth occurring in waves rising up be...

See the entire definition of Heartburn Hematoma: A localized swelling that is filled with blood caused by a break in the wall of ... See the entire definition of Hematoma Hernia: A general term referring to a protrusion of a tissue through the wall of the cavit... See the entire definition of Hernia Hernia repair: Also called a herniorrhaphy, a surgical repair of a hernia. Hernia repair m... See the entire definition of Hydrocele Infection: The invasion and multiplication of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, an... See the entire definition of Infection Inguinal: Having to do with the groin. Intestine: The long, tubelike organ in the abdomen that completes the process of digestion... See the entire definition of Intestine Lateral: 1. In anatomy, the side of the body or a body part that is farther from th... See the entire definition of Lateral Membrane: A very thin layer of tissue that covers a 'surface. Muscle: Muscle is the tissue of the body which primarily functions as a source of power. T... See the entire definition of Muscle Nausea: Stomach queasiness, the urge to vomit.

Nausea can be brought on by many causes, in... See the entire definition of Nausea Navel: The umbilicus, the former site of attachment of the umbilical cord, usually found i... See the entire definition of Navel Nerve: A bundle of fibers that uses electrical and chemical signals to transmit sensory an... See the entire definition of Nerve Obesity: The state of being well above one's normal weight. Obstruction: Blockage of a passageway. See, for example: Airway obstruction; Intestinal o... See the entire definition of Obstruction Oxygen: The odorless gas that is present in the air and necessary to maintain life. Oxygen... See the entire definition of Oxygen Pain: An unpleasant sensation that can range from mild, localized discomfort to agony. Pa... See the entire definition of Pain Pelvic: Having to do with the pelvis, the lower part of the abdomen, located between the h... See the entire definition of Pelvic Pelvic pain: : Pain perceived in the area of the pelvis, the lower part of the abdomen loc... See the entire definition of Prognosis Rectus: Usually refers to the rectus abdominis, a large muscle in the front of the abdomen...

See the entire definition of Rectus Recurrence: The return of a sign, symptom, or disease after a remission. The reappearance ... See the entire definition of Recurrence Referral: The recommendation of a medical or paramedical professional. If you get a refer... See the entire definition of Referral Rib: One of the 12 paired arches of bone that form the skeletal structure of the chest wal... See the entire definition of Rib Rib cage: The structure formed by the thoracic vertebrae and ribs, the sternum (breastbone... See the entire definition of Scrotum Stomach: The digestive organ that is located in the upper abdomen, under the ribs. The upp... See the entire definition of Stomach Stress: In a medical or biological context stress is a physical, mental, or emotional fact... See the entire definition of Stress Surgeon: A physician who treats disease, injury, or deformity via operative or manual meth... See the entire definition of Surgeon Surgery: The branch of medicine that employs operations in the treatment of disease or inj... See the entire definition of Surgery Testicles: The testicles (also called testes or gonads) are the male sex glands. They are ...

See the entire definition of Testicles Thigh: The thick, muscular portion of the leg that extends from the hip to the knee. The t... See the entire definition of Thigh Umbilicus: The vestige left behind on a newborn's belly when the umbilical cord is cut. A... See the entire definition of Umbilicus Urinary: Having to do with the function or anatomy of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or ur... See the entire definition of Urinary Vein: A blood vessel that carries blood that is low in oxygen content from the body back t...

Question: What is the medical term for the protrusion of an organ or tissue through a wall of the cavity in which it is usually contained?
Answer: Hernia