An epigastric hernia is a hernia located in the linea alba, the midline between the rectus abdominis muscles (abdominal muscles). The diagnosis is usually based on a clinical examination. More rarely, it requires an ultrasound (FR) or a CT scan (FR).
Surgical treatment of epigastric hernia
Epigastric hernia repair is most often performed in the outpatient clinic and under general anesthesia (FR). It is done by laparotomy or by laparoscopy with robotic assistance. The choice of the technique depends on the thickness of the tissue, the size of the hernia, and of any previous abdominal procedures. The procedure has to put the intestine back into its original position and to close the hole through which it passed. If the opening of the hernia measures more than 1 cm, a mesh is added to strengthen the repair and to prevent recurrence.