The Center for Abdominal Wall Reconstruction
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The Center for Abdominal Wall Reconstruction at Creighton University Medical Center is led by Dr. Robert Fitzgibbons, a world leader in the treatment of abdominal wall hernias. The Center offers evaluation and treatment for complex hernias and abdominal wall defects. Respected throughout the region, the Center is a valuable resource for many area physicians who look to our specialists for their expertise in the repair of these complex hernias. The latest techniques and technologies are employed by our surgeons, who work collaboratively with plastic surgeons, physical therapy, dietitians and experienced nursing staff to provide comprehensive care and achieve treatment goals.
Abdominal Wall Hernia Anatomy
An abdominal wall hernia is present when there is a hole in the lining and muscles of the abdominal wall which allows contents normally contained in the abdomen to protrude outside of the cavity. These hernias have three parts: 1) a neck, which is the hole in the abdominal wall, 2) a sac, which is formed by the protrusion of the lining of the cavity through the hole, and 3) contents, which are any abdominal organ(s) which have protruded through the neck into the hernia sac.
Types of Abdominal Wall Hernias
Approximately 75% of all abdominal wall hernias occur in the groin area and are called inguinal hernias. These hernias are categorized as either direct (D), indirect (E) or femoral (F). The navel is the second most common location and these are called umbilical hernias (C). The next most common hernia develops where the abdomen has been weakened by a previous surgical procedure. These are called incisional (B) or ventral hernias. Epigastric hernias (A) occur in the middle of the upper part of the abdomen, along a narrow strip of tissue that connects the two rectus muscles, known as the linea alba.
Abdominal Wall Hernia Locations
A. epigastric
B. incisional
C. umbilical
D. direct
E. indirect
F. femoral
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Symptoms
The symptoms of a hernia vary widely. Some are completely painless and the patient would not even know he/she had a hernia were it not for a visible bulge or a doctor’s examination during which the asymptomatic hernia was discovered. When a nonstrangulated hernia is symptomatic, the most frequently heard complaint is pain and discomfort in the area of the hernia, which might be aggravated by activities that increase abdominal pressure, such as coughing, sneezing, lifting, straining while having a bowel movement or urinating. Patients may also experience excruciating pain due to a life threatening condition known as strangulation. Fortunately this occurs far less often than the previous symptoms.
Learn More:
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For Patients
For information or to schedule
an appointment with any of our
core programs, contact us at:
Office: 402.280.4503
For Physicians
To refer a patient or seek a consultation, call
877.775.0011
Our Surgeons
Robert J. Fitzgibbons, Jr.,
MD, FACS
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Samuel Cemaj, MD
Matt Rivard, MD
George Hatzoudis, MD
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