Hernia Program

A hernia is a weakness in the abdominal wall, which may be present from birth or develop over time. It occurs at areas of natural or acquired openings in the abdomen, including the groin, the umbilicus (belly button) and at the site of surgical incisions/scars.

The Hernia Program at Cedars-Sinai Medical Group provides complete diagnostic and treatment services for adult and teenage patients with hernias. As a trusted name in healthcare , Cedars-Sinai Medical Group ensures that patients receive comprehensive, personalized care from a highly experienced staff and board-certified physicians.

Signs and Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of hernias may include:

• A noticeable lump at the hernia site that may or may not go away when you lie down
• A dull ache at the site of the hernia, which often worsens when you cough, strain or are physically active

Reasons for Treatment

Left untreated, hernias tend to increase in size and cause progressively worsening symptoms. A hernia can become stuck such that it will no longer go back in to the abdomen (incarceration). An incarcerated hernia can become stuck so tightly that whatever is inside the hernia (intestine or other abdominal contents) can lose their blood supply and die (strangulation). Strangulation is a surgical emergency, which requires a more complex and riskier operation than simple elective hernia repair.

Treatment

The only definitive treatment of hernias is surgery. This usually minor procedure involves insertion of a synthetic mesh to repair the hernia defect. The surgery is usually done through a small incision and under sedation so that you feel no pain. Usually it is an outpatient procedure, and you are able to go home the same day.

Recovery

The exact length of recovery varies with each patient and depends on the type and size of hernia. Most patients (as those with groin or umbilical hernias) walk out of the Cedars-Sinai Surgery Center about an hour after the surgery and usually take pain medication for two days or less. Since activity will not compromise the hernia repair as it is currently done, patients are instructed to resume normal activities (including going to the gym and other forms of exercise) as soon as it does not give them pain to do so.

For More Information

For more information about the Hernia Program at Cedars-Sinai Medical Group, please contact:

Our Expert Surgeons

David Fermelia, MD

Neel Joshi, MD

Gregory Tsushima, MD 

Payment

Cedars-Sinai Medical Group accepts self-pay, most forms of insurance and Medicare. Patients should contact their health plans directly to inquire about coverage.