A hernia can be concerning and significantly impact health. However; it can be tolerated for some time before requiring treatment. An incarcerated hernia is a completely different case.
An incarcerated inguinal hernia is a life-threatening complication that requires immediate surgical intervention. In this blog, let’s learn more about what an incarcerated hernia is and how to identify its symptoms. Additionally, we will also learn about how incarcerated hernia is treated.
What is Incarcerated Hernia?
An incarcerated hernia occurs when a portion of the intestine or other abdominal tissue becomes trapped within the hernia sac, preventing it from being pushed back into its original position.
This condition typically happens from a hernia. It is defined as the protrusion of a tissue or organ through a weak spot located in the abdominal wall. Incarceration can lead to serious life-threatening complications like bowel obstruction and strangulation without prompt medical treatment.
Signs of Incarcerated Hernia
An incarcerated hernia has some tell-tale signs that can be identified for timely medical intervention. Here are some common symptoms of an incarcerated hernia.
- Bulge in the groin or abdomen
The most noticeable sign of this condition is a bulge in the groin area that becomes larger over time. - Pain or discomfort
Patients often experience localized pain at the site of the hernia, which can worsen with movement or straining. - Tenderness and swelling
The area around the hernia may be tender to the touch and visibly swollen. - Large and irreducible
Unlike reducible hernias, incarcerated hernias cannot be pushed back into place manually. - Gastrointestinal symptoms
If the incarcerated tissue leads to bowel obstructions, stomach-related issues such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, or inability to pass gas can occur.
How is Incarcerated Hernia Treated
An incarcerated hernia involves surgical intervention, and this approach depends on whether there are signs of strangulation or just incarceration. If strangulation is suspected, immediate surgery is required to prevent tissue death.
The surgery will involve releasing the trapped tissue and repairing the hernia defect. If there are no signs of strangulation, a healthcare provider may attempt to reduce the hernia manually. This involves pushing the trapped tissue back into place with patients positioned to facilitate this process.
In many cases, minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques can use smaller incisions and quicker recovery times than traditional open surgery. After any surgical procedure, patients are monitored for complications and provided with instructions for recovery, including avoiding heavy lifting and straining.
Takeaway
An incarcerated hernia is a serious medical condition that happens because of hernias. It has life-threatening implications, such as bowel obstruction or strangulation. Recognizing its symptoms can help seek crucial medical attention.
If you suspect you have hernia symptoms or related complications, contact Dr. Rick Ngo at Texas Hernia & Surgical Specialists. He is an experienced medical professional who specializes in Hernia surgeries and care. Dial (888) 365-1544 to schedule an appointment.