A ventral hernia occurs when part of the intestines or other material pokes through a weakened spot in the abdominal wall. If this happens after abdominal surgery, it's called an incisional hernia. Some ventral hernias occur at the navel, and they are called umbilical hernias.
Causes
Abdominal surgery, diabetes, severe vomiting, coughing, heavy lifting, pregnancy, and straining during bowel movement are common causes of ventral hernia.
Strangulation
In some cases, intestinal strangulation occurs. That can cause sections of the intestines to die, and it sometimes is fatal to the patient.
Obstruction
When intestinal obstruction occurs from ventral herniation, the passageway is blocked and the patient might not be able to have a bowel movement.
Restriction
In rare cases, restriction of blood flow to the intestines occurs. This is a serious complication and requires emergency surgery.
Loss Of Domain
If a large section of the intestines protrudes outside the abdominal wall, the abdominal space shrinks. This is called loss of domain, and additional complications can occur. The abdominal wall must be surgically enlarged to replace the intestines.
