Remove an umbilical hernia without surgery. Umbilical hernia: how to do without surgery? conservative methods of treatment. How to cure umbilical hernia in adults at home

An umbilical hernia looks like a protrusion in the umbilical region. Sometimes there is another name for it - umbilical hernia. It occurs due to the weakness of the muscular aponeurosis of the anterior abdominal wall. When there are factors that increase intra-abdominal pressure, there is a movement of areas internal organs through the defect of the aponeurosis into the subcutaneous region. This pathology is diagnosed in both children and adults.

What is the treatment for an umbilical hernia?

At the initial stage, a hernia on the abdomen causes little concern to the patient, so attempts are being made to cure it at home. folk methods. You can find recommendations on wearing bandages, using herbal infusions, therapeutic massage, and compresses.

Only when complaints arise in the form of pain or discomfort in the umbilical region or with an increase in the size of the protrusion, patients turn to the surgeon. In such cases, they are recommended planned surgical treatment of abdominal hernia, the so-called hernioplasty. To date, she is the only effective way treatment. The choice of surgical technique depends on the size of the hernia, the age of the patient, the presence of concomitant pathology of the internal organs or other types of hernias (inguinal, femoral).

The indication for emergency surgical treatment is a strangulated hernia. It is characterized by severe pain in the umbilical region with irradiation to other parts of the abdomen. Also noted the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, absence of gas and stool. In such cases, treatment umbilical hernia without surgery is impossible, you must urgently contact the surgical hospital.

What methods of surgical treatment are used?

Techniques of surgical interventions, according to which umbilical hernia is treated in adults, are divided into two groups: with tension of the aponeurosis (tense hernioplasty) and without tension (non-tense). They differ in the way the defect is closed in the area of the hernial ring.

What is a stress hernioplasty?

These types of operations are used in surgical practice decades, in last years they give way more modern techniques. Operations with tension of the aponeurosis are recommended if the abdominal hernia is small, up to 3 cm, as well as in case of a strangulated hernia with the development of complications. The most commonly used techniques are Mayo and Sapezhko.

The intervention technique consists in making a surgical incision, then the hernial sac is opened and its contents are revised. After that, the area of the omentum or intestines is set inward. In the presence of necrosis of the intestine, part of it is resected. In conclusion, the edges of the aponeurosis are sutured and the hernial ring is closed. The main disadvantages of this method of treatment are as follows:

Long period of rehabilitation. After this type of surgery, rehabilitation can last up to a year. Restriction recommended physical activity, sports.
Frequent relapses. The occurrence of repeated umbilical hernia in the same place. According to some reports, the frequency of such complications in the treatment of small hernias ranges from 5 to 20%. And in the treatment of umbilical hernias large sizes and even up to 30-50%.
Availability postoperative scar. Also, when using the operation according to the Sapezhko method, the hernia is removed along with the navel. This leads to a significant cosmetic defect.

Additionally, the umbilical hernia is mentioned in the video:

What are the advantages of stress-free hernioplasty?

In recent years, surgeons have recommended treating adult umbilical hernias with synthetic mesh materials. Such techniques are called non-stressed hernioplasty, since in this case the edges of the aponeurosis are not tightened, but something like a “patch” is formed from an artificial implant. The synthetic implant consists of polypropylene, it is strong enough, able to withstand a load of up to 5 tons. Its main feature is that it does not cause allergic reactions on the part of the patient's body, since it is chemically inert and does not come into contact with biological tissue.

The operation technique consists in opening the hernial sac, revision of the contents. Then, the hernial ring is repaired with a mesh material. It is firmly fixed to the edges of the aponeurosis and completely closes the defect. The implant can be placed either superficially under the skin or deep into the tissue of the umbilical region. Deep placement is more preferable, because with its superficial location, accumulation of fluid under the skin (seroma) can be observed.

In recent years, techniques have been developed for performing hernioplasty without a wide surgical incision, using laparoscopic equipment. With this operation, three small incisions up to 5 mm are performed. Numerous positive reviews from specialists and patients make this method the most commonly used in surgical practice. The advantages of the technique are the following:

Short rehabilitation period. With this technique, it is from seven to twenty days. Already on the first day after the operation, the patient can get out of bed and eat. On the third day, you can follow the usual diet.
Absence cosmetic defect in the form of a postoperative scar.
Low recurrence rate. According to some reports, it is up to 1%.
Lack of long pain syndrome in the postoperative period.
Low invasiveness of the operation, the possibility of its implementation with concomitant somatic diseases.

Non-stress laparoscopic hernioplasty can be used for the simultaneous treatment of hernias different localization. For example, umbilical and inguinal or femoral. Or it is possible to carry out simultaneous treatment of hernia and diseases of internal organs, for example, gallstone disease.

Treatment of umbilical hernia during pregnancy

As already mentioned above, the main treatment for umbilical hernia is surgical. But in pregnant women, such treatment is not recommended, since the drugs (anesthesia, analgesics) used during surgery have a toxic effect on the fetus. An exception is a strangulated hernia, when an emergency is necessary. surgical intervention according to vital indications.

If an umbilical hernia in a pregnant woman does not cause discomfort, then treatment is carried out at home, it is recommended to wear compression underwear for pregnant. It supports an overstretched abdominal wall and relieves abdominal muscle tension. The photo shows what such a bandage looks like.

In the photo - bandage panties for pregnant women

Quite often, after childbirth, an umbilical hernia self-heals. If this does not happen, a planned hernioplasty is performed in the postpartum period.

Treatment with folk remedies

Is it possible for an adult patient to get rid of an umbilical hernia without surgery? As mentioned above, the treatment folk remedies this pathology does not bring the desired effect.

Used baked onion. It is necessary to bake an onion and attach it to the navel area. Then put a warm scarf or scarf on top. It is necessary to make such a compress once a day.
Using an infusion of cornflower flowers. Take three teaspoons of cornflower flowers and pour boiling water (400 ml). After the drink is infused, it must be taken throughout the day in uniform portions.
Reception of a decoction of burbot. Burbot broth is being prepared. You need to drink up to 500 ml of broth per day. The dish has a high nutritional value and helps to strengthen the tissues in the navel.
Massage of the abdomen in the umbilical region. It is more often recommended for young children, but it can also be done by adults.

All these folk remedies for umbilical hernia can be used only in the absence of a clinic for hernia incarceration and abdominal pain. Otherwise, it is better to consult a surgeon, only he will be able to provide qualified assistance with this pathology.

An umbilical hernia is one of the most common pathologies of the body. Among the known hernias of the abdomen, this violation takes the third place. The deviation is associated with dysfunctions of the umbilical ring. This is the weakest and most vulnerable place on the anterior wall of the abdominal cavity. There is no fat in the umbilical cavity, it is not protected muscle tissue, therefore, for the localization and development of a hernia, this place is ideal.

The condition is characterized by the protrusion of internal organs through the navel ring. The protruding organs are in the hernial sac, which is a thin film of connective tissues. At first, the hernial protrusion may be insignificant, it is enough for a person to slightly press on it and set it in place. It is not painful or dangerous, but such actions help temporarily. It is better not to get involved in self-elimination of the problem and immediately proceed to a more radical treatment with the participation of a doctor. When the disease passes into an advanced stage, the umbilical ring grows, which leads to an increase in the size of the hernia itself. It expands, protrudes and causes discomfort.

An umbilical hernia in adults is an emotionally complex disease. Pathology is always noticeable and conspicuous by its unattractiveness. It changes the natural contours and shapes of the abdomen. You can hide under clothes, but you can’t hide the defect in the bathhouse, on the beach or in the pool. Pathological protrusions in adulthood are not only an aesthetic defect. In adults, umbilical hernia is much more difficult than in childhood. The progression of the disease is severe complications. Let's try to figure out what the essence of the disease is and what is the degree of its seriousness.

Symptoms of an umbilical hernia

The most important and noticeable symptom that characterizes umbilical hernias is the expansion of the umbilical ring and the formation of a protrusion. A tumor-like hernia consists of skin, fatty tissue and part of an organ. Most often, the hernial sac contains the large (small) intestine and omentum. The protrusion may be different forms and sizes. Sometimes it is not visible and can only be felt. With a large hernia complicated by adhesions, the defect is always noticeable. It is not uncommon for an umbilical hernia to grow to a gigantic size.

A hernia may appear imperceptibly. There have been cases where pathological formation may develop suddenly. Usually this is due to the influence of a variety of factors, for example, lifting weights.

At first, the disease does not cause problems and anxiety to the patient. Many people live with hernias, get used to their existence and even forget about the presence of the disease. Absence severe symptoms umbilical hernia does not make it possible to determine the presence of a serious pathology. Many of the patients believe that the protrusion in the navel is an individual anatomical feature of their body. Meanwhile, doctors warn that there are no safe hernias. Even in the absence of symptoms, over time, the size of the umbilical hernia begins to increase. Growth is especially noticeable after hard physical work, sneezing, prolonged coughing, long stay a person in an upright position or after overeating.

When a hernia is infringed clinical picture is changing. This is a very dangerous condition that requires immediate medical attention. The strangulated hernial protrusion becomes painful. The pains are very strong, in some patients they can cause shock. The hernia tightens, rapidly increases in size and becomes hot. There are redness and swelling in the umbilical cavity. Such a hernia can no longer be corrected independently. The abdomen is soft at first, but gradually, with the addition of intestinal obstruction, there is a strong swelling and muscle tension. Sometimes this is accompanied by hiccups, vomiting and complete retention of bowel movements. In a few hours, the patient's condition can change dramatically. It worsens sharply: the pulse quickens, the pressure drops, the temperature first rises, and eventually falls. This is due to the fact that an irreversible process of poisoning with intestinal toxins begins in the body. If left untreated, a strangulated umbilical hernia can be fatal.

Most often, an umbilical hernia is found in pregnant women and women who have already given birth, people who are obese and those who perform hard work and plays sports, not knowing about the weakness of the abdominal wall.

In the list of risk factors: serious chronic respiratory diseases, accompanied by prolonged coughing, frequent constipation, problems with urination. Provoke the appearance of a hernia in the navel can various injuries and anatomical deviations in the structure of the umbilical ring.

All causes of umbilical hernia in adults are known and well studied:

Congenital abnormalities of the umbilical ring. After the birth of a person, the umbilical ring is scarred and closed. This is the norm, but there are deviations. If full scarring has not occurred, a small hole remains. Over time, this can lead to the expansion of the ring and the subsequent development of an umbilical hernia.

Pregnancy and childbirth. As the belly of a pregnant woman grows, the load on the internal organs increases. This can lead to weakening of the abdominal muscles. Hernial protrusion in women in position is a frequent phenomenon. This is not a cause for panic, but the doctor should be aware of the problem. The emerging protrusion on the growing belly is observed in every third pregnant woman. It can be noticeable even after childbirth. Until the moment when the abdominal cavity regains its former tone, the umbilical hernia will not go anywhere. Intra-abdominal pressure rises gradually throughout pregnancy. The 2nd and 3rd trimesters are considered the most dangerous, when the baby is actively growing and the uterus is enlarged. Constipation that accompanies pregnancy causes an increase in pressure inside the abdominal cavity. The formation of an umbilical hernia can contribute to polyhydramnios, a large fetus and difficult childbirth. At risk and women carrying twins or triplets.

Intra-abdominal pressure. The anterior abdominal wall is a complex anatomical formation, which consists of connective and muscle tissues. By firmly holding the internal organs, it protects them and ensures that they are in a natural position. If the abdominal press is weakened, the resistance of the abdominal wall is broken, it is no longer able to maintain balance and counteract the pressure inside the abdomen. Muscles lose elasticity and elasticity, they stretch and are no longer able to fully perform their natural functions. As a result, the ligaments lengthen, the tissues become thinner, and some organs become mobile. They are compressed, lowered, can twist and change the place of localization. Some of them get into the hernial sac and become the contents of the umbilical hernia.

Sedentary lifestyle. Everything is understandable, low physical activity causes weakness of the abdominal press. Conversely, a sharp increase in load (lifting weights) leads to a jump in pressure inside the abdomen and the development of a hernia.

disease, which is accompanied by a constant increase in intra-abdominal pressure I. This includes diseases of the respiratory and digestive systems, the development of which manifests symptoms such as chronic cough and frequent constipation.

Sharp weight loss. If a person is sloppy with diets and switches to a restricted diet, drastic weight loss is inevitable. This is also observed when serious illnesses. Rapid weight loss is always stressful for the body, it does not have time to rebuild and adapt to new conditions for it. All this negatively affects the condition of muscle tissue. With rapid weight loss, the umbilical ring weakens, which causes the formation of hernial protrusions in the umbilical zone.

hereditary predisposition. In violation of the synthesis of collagen in the body, diseases occur that can be caused by weakness of the connective tissues. An umbilical hernia is one of them, it can develop at the genetic level. In 70% of cases, the disease is inherited.

Abdominal injuries and consequences operations. Hernias are often localized at the site of sutures from operations and injuries in the umbilical region of the hernia.

Danger and consequences of umbilical hernia

The patient's condition usually worsens with an increase in the size of the hernia:

The protrusion becomes dense, and when you touch it, a person experiences pain.

The organs located in the hernia can no longer be put back into place.

Inflammation of the organ located in the hernial sac. This is accompanied by swelling, pain, redness in the navel.

The temperature rises and the general condition of the patient worsens. All these dangerous symptoms characterize the restrained state of the umbilical hernia, the most severe form diseases.

Arise severe pain, vomiting, nausea and constipation.

The blood to the restrained, squeezed organ stops flowing, which leads to its death. This condition is life threatening.

Without medical intervention, peritonitis may develop. At serious inflammation abdominal cavity may be fatal.

Intestinal obstruction is considered a complication similar in symptoms. The part of the intestine that is in the hernia becomes clogged with feces. If left untreated, the prognosis is unfavorable, this complication can also significantly shorten a person's life.

Any suspicious seal and protrusion in the navel should be alarming. Sometimes these signs characterize the presence of metastases cancerous tumor stomach. This is a rare occurrence, but for the sake of maintaining health and life, it is better to exclude any risk factors.

An umbilical hernia in adults is one of the diseases whose diagnosis does not cause problems. Pathology is always visually noticeable, a person can independently see and feel it. If a deviation is detected, at least a doctor's consultation is required. It is better not to postpone a visit to a specialist, the duration and effectiveness of treatment will depend on this.

Diagnosis of the disease begins with an examination. The doctor feels the patient's abdomen and assesses the condition of the umbilical zone. The patient may be asked to strain and cough. A conversation and clarification of the nature of the symptoms are required. The doctor may ask when the protrusion was discovered, how it manifests itself, and whether there are close relatives who have had a similar pathology. Having studied the information received, the doctor makes a preliminary diagnosis.

To confirm it, you may need additional research:

Ultrasound allows you to identify a hernial formation, determine its condition, contours and dimensions. The study helps to see the organs that are in the hernial sac, the absence or presence of or adhesions.

Herniography is prescribed in case of doubts about the diagnosis. A radiopaque substance is injected into the patient's abdomen. Once in the hernial sac, it stains it. As a result, all deviations are clearly visible on x-rays.

Radiography with contrast, gastroduodenoscopy of the stomach and duodenum. Thanks to these diagnostic methods, the doctor has the opportunity to detect inflammatory and tumor processes that accompany an umbilical hernia and cause pain.

Answers to frequently asked questions

Should an umbilical hernia be removed? The formation of a hernial protrusion in the navel in most cases is associated with the predisposition of the body. Many of those who are actively involved in sports and are the owner of a trained press exclude the development of such a disease in themselves. This is an erroneous judgment. Developed muscles and muscles do not always save from the onset and progression of the disease. Moreover, elastic inflated muscles can aggravate the condition. The hernia will become almost invisible, but it will not go anywhere and at any moment can provoke an infringement. Unfortunately, there is no cure for umbilical hernia. She is not treated with folk remedies, and therapeutic exercises are also powerless. All these methods are effective only for improving the general condition and relieving some symptoms, but you can only get rid of the pathology by removing it. If this is not done, the hernia will grow, and the risk of complications increases.

How to identify an umbilical hernia in an infant? It is difficult for even an inexperienced parent not to notice an umbilical hernia in a baby. After the umbilical cord falls off, a slight protrusion of the navel is considered normal. This is an anatomical predisposition and you should not be afraid of it. The bulge increases when the child cries or pushes. The navel can be set in place, while the baby will not experience discomfort. The reason for a visit to the pediatrician should be symptoms such as unreduced hernia, vomiting, nausea, discoloration of the formation and swelling in the navel.

How is an umbilical hernia removed in adults? Two options for access to the area of the hernial sac are used: through an incision or laparoscopically, that is, by a puncture method. The latter method is considered the most optimal. The doctor sutures the hernial orifice, cuts off adhesions and strengthens the abdominal walls. Large incisions are made with volumetric hernial formations. Sometimes the umbilical ring needs to be removed, which the doctor must inform the patient about in advance. To avoid relapses, a special mesh is placed during the operation.

Is it possible to treat an umbilical hernia without surgery? This is unlikely. There are chances for those who applied for medical care at the first sign of illness. Such cases are very rare, mostly they come to the doctors when the pains begin to bother and the protrusion reaches a large size.

Operation to remove an umbilical hernia

An umbilical hernia can be eliminated spontaneously only in children under 4-5 years old. In adults, this defect is removed, since the umbilical ring is not able to return to its previous forms. Even wearing a bandage for a long time will not save you. Such pathologies are not treated with pills, compresses and diets. Reestablish normal forms abdomen and eliminate the umbilical hernia in adults is possible only by surgery. Best time for surgical intervention - the stage when the hernial protrusion is still set.

Operations to eliminate umbilical hernias are called hernioplasty. The choice of the type of operation depends on the size and anatomical features hernial formation, the state of the anterior wall of the abdominal cavity, the general condition of the patient and the presence of concomitant diseases. Before any operation, the patient undergoes a thorough examination.

In modern herniology, vast experience has been accumulated in delivering patients from umbilical hernias, regardless of their size. Giant, recurrent, complex hernias are safely removed with the most different methods plastic defects. This area of medicine is actively developing and is considered very promising. The level of treatment improves markedly, which allows us to make optimistic predictions about the effectiveness of radical treatment.

The essence of the operation

In all cases, when prescribing an operation, the choice of the pathology removal method is determined individually. The goal of the doctor is to remove the hernial formation and exclude relapses with the least intervention in the body.

If there is no infringement, the operation is carried out as planned. It does not require special preparation of the patient and is quite easily tolerated. The doctor examines the patient, appoints an examination and the date of hospitalization.

Tension hernioplasty. Tension surgery uses your own tissues to strengthen the navel ring. They are pulled, this is done to close the detected defect. To access the hernial sac, the specialist makes an incision. If the bag small size, it is eliminated by immersion in the stomach. If the hernia is large, it is removed. After that, the umbilical ring is strengthened with neighboring tissues and stitched. One of the disadvantages of this surgical method is a high probability of recurrence, in 10% of patients there is a repeated hernia.

tension-free hernioplasty. In cases where tension-free hernioplasty is performed, the umbilical ring area is strengthened with special synthetic meshes. An incision is also required during the operation. The rehabilitation period lasts no more than a month, relapses are rare.

Laparoscopy. Laparoscopic operations are known and widely used. This is the safest way to eliminate pathology, which surgeons have been using for over 20 years. Among the main advantages of this type of hernioplasty is the absence of scars after surgery, minimal trauma, low likelihood of developing postoperative adhesive processes. Operations require special medical equipment and experienced trained doctors. Hernioplasty is performed through a puncture in the abdomen, without incisions. To strengthen the umbilical ring, the surgeon uses a mesh implant. Rehabilitation after surgery is reduced in time, the patient recovers faster.

When a hernia is infringed, there is a threat to life. In the hernial sac, where the organs get, the blood almost does not get. Organs die, suppuration begins and, as a result, poisoning of the body with toxic substances. These processes take place very quickly, the clock counts, so in critical cases the operation is carried out urgently. During surgery, the hernial sac is opened. The doctor examines the organ inside. If no changes are found, it is immersed in abdominal cavity. When the necrosis of a part of the organ is revealed, it is simply cut off. The operation of a strangulated hernia is quite complicated, a favorable outcome without consequences and complications is possible only with timely access to qualified specialists.

Is umbilical hernia surgery necessary?

Non-surgical hernia treatment involves massage, therapeutic exercises and wearing a bandage. Rendering local action and fixing the wall of the abdominal cavity, the bandage prevents the protrusion and exit of the umbilical hernia outside the cavity. Patients are advised to wear it all the time, especially for overweight people whose stomach hangs down. Massage and special gymnastics allow you to tone the muscles, but the umbilical ring does not overgrow. Unfortunately, the regenerative abilities of an adult organism are not able to cope with the disease on their own, all conservative methods can prevent infringement, but the risk always remains.

Non-surgical methods of treatment are resorted to only if there are contraindications to surgery. This group includes the elderly, patients with diagnoses of diabetes”, “cirrhosis of the liver” and “ kidney failure". Do not perform surgery in the presence of malignant tumors, chronic diseases, severe heart pathologies, pregnancy on later dates. In other cases, surgery is necessary, the success of the operation is considered the only way save a person from a hernia and protect against serious consequences.

Indications for umbilical hernia surgery are:

Infringement of an umbilical hernia;

irreducible hernia;

Recurrent hernias;

Rupture of the hernial sac.

In a planned manner, surgery is prescribed for patients with uncomplicated umbilical hernia. After a full examination and preparation, the doctor chooses the best option for surgical intervention.

What can you eat after umbilical hernia surgery?

Rehabilitation of the body after surgery is carried out under the supervision of a doctor in medical institution. If there are no complications, the patient can be discharged after 2-3 days. Regardless of where the patient is, he is prescribed bed rest and wearing a bandage.

Mandatory item rehabilitation measures is a power adjustment. Even after a simple operation, it is necessary to remember the intervention in the body and the violation of the integrity of the skin. The body needs to recover, it needs help to cope with a stressful condition. This involves a calm regimen, the exclusion of any physical activity and a light, balanced diet.

In the early days, only liquid food is allowed. New foods and dishes should be introduced to the menu gradually, as the stomach should get used to normal food. During the rehabilitation period, constipation and any other problems with the intestines are unacceptable. Preference should be given to products that help soften and hassle-free exit of feces.

All spicy, salty, fatty and smoked products. Food should be healthy and natural. To facilitate the work and condition of the body, it is advisable to eat small portions and at least five times a day. It is best to eat light soups and cereals. Over time, it is allowed to supplement the diet with seafood, fruits, low-fat dairy products, food rich in proteins (meat, mushrooms, eggs, fish). From drinks, jelly and vegetable juices are preferable.

Postoperative recovery involves not only following a diet, but also a change in lifestyle. Patients are advised to avoid bad habits. This applies not only to cigarettes and alcohol. It is advisable to exclude fast food, coffee and carbonated drinks from the diet. You can return to physical activity in about a month. How long it takes to recover depends on compliance medical advice and responsibility of the patient.

Education: Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry (1996). In 2003 he received a diploma from the educational and scientific medical center for the administration of the President of the Russian Federation.

An umbilical hernia is a common disease among newborns and adults, therefore, treatment is carried out with standard surgical and therapeutic methods. Patients with an umbilical hernia need radical elimination of the disease, but children under 5 years of age and people with a contraindication to surgery can be treated without surgery using physiotherapy, bandage, medicines and traditional medicine.

Important! You can get rid of the disease only surgically, other methods only help to remove the symptoms and temporarily reduce the protrusions in the navel.

Determine the disease early stage in order to adequately treat an umbilical hernia without surgery is easy, but only in the case of a typical course of the disease. There are rare cases when an umbilical hernia is asymptomatic, which is dangerous with the risk of a sudden complication and the need for urgent surgery.

An umbilical protrusion is detected on examination by an abdominal surgeon, the defect is a rounded protrusion of the navel. Small defects can be easily repositioned, the impossibility of repositioning is a sign of infringement, which is accompanied by severe local and general symptoms.

Signs of an umbilical hernia in adults and children

The diagnosis of an umbilical hernia is confirmed when the following symptoms and diagnostic features are present:

When a person stands, coughs, strains the abdominal muscles, the defect is determined visually and increases;
In the supine position or in a relaxed state, the hernia disappears or decreases somewhat;
The paraumbilical ring is expanded, and increases as the disease progresses;
Congenital hernias are visible immediately after birth, when the child cries, screams, the protrusion increases;
When pressing on the navel, a characteristic gurgling sound is heard;
Ultrasound procedure shows the hernial sac and its contents, it may be part of the intestine, the omentum.

In overweight adult patients, the diagnosis is more difficult, symptoms of discomfort are present, but the defect itself is not visible, and the disease is detected more often during an examination of the abdominal cavity for other diseases.

An important point in the diagnosis is to ask the patient about the time of the defect, sensations, the presence of other pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract and digestive disorders, including constipation, nausea, pain in the abdomen and lower back.

Treatment of children without surgery

The small size of the hernia, the absence of signs of complication of the umbilical defect are indications for non-surgical treatment of children under 5 years of age. Modern devices and techniques designed specifically for children help to get rid of a birth defect: an anti-hernia patch, a children's umbilical belt, a set of exercises.

Stages of treatment of umbilical protrusion in a child:

Babies are placed on the stomach before feeding;
Every day, the child is laid on his back for pressure on the navel, hernia management and massage;
After the massage, the hernia is reduced and an anti-hernia patch is fixed;
When a child has colic and constantly cries, drugs such as Espumizan, Riabal, Bobotik, Infakol are prescribed;
Older children should follow a sparing diet, which is selected with a pediatrician and nutritionist;
Abdominal massage includes stroking, rubbing, massaging the navel area, and this should be done daily when the child is relaxed and alert;
Special children's gymnastics is shown: the child needs to be rolled from the right to the left side, lifted, holding under the arms, laid on the gymnastic ball and rocked.

In children under the age of five, it is possible to cure an umbilical hernia by following all the doctor's recommendations, performing gymnastics, massage, and using an umbilical bandage.

Reduction of a hernia in adolescents

Treatment of adolescents is also effective with the use of an umbilical patch. The hernia is reduced, the skin around the navel is tightened and the patch is fixed. You need to keep it for a week, after which a break is made for two days and the procedure is repeated. Reviews show that after ten procedures, you can get rid of the protrusion, but only in the case of a small defect.

More effective method for teenagers, you can select the umbilical belt along with gymnastics. This allows you to strengthen the abdominal muscles, prevent the progression of a hernia, and the bandage will eliminate the occurrence of complications during exercise.

The body of a teenager is actively developing, because the disease can behave unpredictably, causing complications. It is possible that urgent surgery is required.

Operations cannot be avoided if severe symptoms appear:

The impossibility of repositioning the protrusion in the supine position, an increase in the hernia, a change in the color of the defect, dry skin;
Dyspeptic disorders: nausea, vomiting with blood, lack of stool or prolonged constipation, bleeding during bowel movements;
The appearance of intense pain in the area of the defect, in the lower abdomen, back;
Fever, general weakness, lack of appetite.

How to get rid of a hernia for adults?

Hernia in adults is a surgical disease, but there are cases when the operation is contraindicated, then alternative methods getting rid of hernia.

Hernia reduction and prevention of complications in adults:

Wearing a support bandage during walks, light exercise;
Exclusion of heavy physical work;
Massage course, therapeutic exercises, nutrition and lifestyle correction.

Hernia during pregnancy occurs frequently and you should try to delay the need for surgery until the baby is born.

Women are advised to wear a special belt even in the absence of an umbilical hernia, as it can appear at any time, and a bandage can prevent this. Pregnant women should monitor their weight, nutrition, exercise, and undergo the necessary studies.

The umbilical ring is the weakest point on the anterior abdominal wall. Therefore, it is one of those places where hernial protrusions are most often formed. In adults, intestinal loops, omentum and other organs can exit through the umbilical ring.

Facts about umbilical hernias:

make up 5% of all abdominal hernias in adulthood;
most often found in women after 40 years;
for the first time the disease was described by the ancient Roman physician Celsus, who lived in the 1st century AD;
The first successful operation for an umbilical hernia was performed in France in 1885.

Features of the anatomy of the anterior abdominal wall and the navel

The lateral and anterior walls of the abdomen, which protect the internal organs, consist mainly of the abdominal muscles. They are arranged in three layers, their bundles run in different directions and provide different types movements.
The only place where the stomach is not protected by muscles is a narrow white line, which runs in the front center from the sternum to the pubis.

White line - this is the junction of the abdominal muscles located on the right and left. It is formed by their aponeuroses - bundles connective tissue. In the upper part, the white line of the abdomen is narrower and thicker, in the lower part it is wider and thinner, which means weaker.

While the fetus is in the womb of a pregnant woman, it has a rounded opening in the white line of the abdomen - the umbilical ring. The umbilical cord passes through it, connecting the mother and child.

The composition of the umbilical cord includes:

umbilical arteries;
umbilical veins;
urinary duct.

After the birth and falling off of the umbilical cord, the umbilical ring normally closes and turns into a scar. And yet it remains the most weak point on the front wall of the abdomen, since there are neither muscles nor subcutaneous fat. Under certain conditions, there is a protrusion of the internal organs of the abdomen through its front wall in the navel area - an umbilical hernia is formed.

The organs that protrude into the hernial protrusion are located in the hernial sac. It is represented by the peritoneum - thin film from the connective tissue that lines the inside of the abdominal cavity and covers the internal organs.

Causes of umbilical hernia in adults:

Congenital expansion of the umbilical ring when it is not completely scarred, and a small hole remains. This may not manifest itself in childhood, but over time, under certain conditions, an umbilical hernia is formed.
Pregnancy and childbirth. During pregnancy, the woman's belly increases, the navel is stretched because of this. Constipation occurs, which leads to increased pressure inside the abdomen. The risk is especially high in women who have given birth more than once, during pregnancy they did not follow the recommendations of the doctor. Also, difficult childbirth, a large fetus, polyhydramnios, pregnancy with twins and triplets can lead to the occurrence of an umbilical hernia.
Sedentary lifestyle. If a person neglects physical activity, his abdominals weaken.
Excessive exercise. When lifting heavy weights, the pressure inside the abdomen rises greatly.
Diseases accompanied by a constant increase in intra-abdominal pressure. These can be diseases of the digestive system, during which there are constant constipation, chronic cough, etc.
Obesity. subcutaneous fat- this is extra weight. It leads to stretching of the anterior abdominal wall.
Rescheduled operations. Hernias in the navel may also occur in situ postoperative sutures. The risk is greatly increased if the patient does not follow the recommendations of the doctor, starts to show too early physical activity.
Abdominal injury.
Too rapid weight loss. This can happen when a person is on a strict diet or is seriously ill, resulting in malnutrition. The umbilical ring is weakened, conditions are created for the formation of a hernial protrusion.

Signs of an umbilical hernia in adults

Bulging in the umbilical region. Most characteristic and well noticeable symptom umbilical hernia. It can be of various sizes. Sometimes the protrusion is barely noticeable, in the prone position it is not visible at all. And sometimes very big.

If you put your fingers on the protrusion and cough slightly, strain, you can feel a characteristic push.

If you press on the protrusion, it usually disappears - the hernia is reduced inside the abdomen. A large hernia, complicated by adhesions in the umbilical region, can become irreducible - it never disappears. Usually, pain, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, and constipation are disturbing. If part of the bladder gets into the hernial protrusion, there are problems with urination.

Pain in patients with umbilical hernia usually occurs only during intense physical exertion, during coughing, sneezing, constipation.

Symptoms of an umbilical hernia in a pregnant woman:

the navel protrudes strongly;
during palpation of the navel, it feels like an empty cavity;
clicks occur in the abdomen: the sound resembles the bursting of bubbles.

Complications of an umbilical hernia

infringement. If part of the intestine or other organ is infringed in the umbilical ring, then sharp pains(they can be of different strengths) associated with compression of nerves and blood vessels. There is constipation, nausea, vomiting. After 2-8 hours, the strangulated part of the organ begins to die due to the fact that blood does not flow to it. Symptoms intensify, the patient's condition becomes more severe. After 8 hours, the wall of the organ usually dies, peritonitis develops - inflammation of the abdominal cavity. The patient's life is in danger.
Intestinal obstruction- a condition in which the part of the intestine located in the hernia is clogged with feces. This complication is very similar to infringement and is manifested by similar symptoms.

Inflammation of the organ located in the hernial sac. There is pain, swelling, redness in the area of the hernial protrusion, the body temperature rises, the general condition of the patient is disturbed.

Diagnosis of umbilical hernia in adults

Which doctor should I contact with an umbilical hernia?

If you have symptoms similar to those of an umbilical hernia, you should contact your surgeon. An umbilical hernia is dangerous not only for its complications. If a protrusion and thickening occurs in the umbilical region, this may be a metastasis malignant tumor stomach. This rarely happens, but in every case it must be ruled out. The doctor will examine and prescribe an examination.

How is the examination with the surgeon?

The doctor asks the patient to undress to the waist.
He examines the abdomen in a standing position, lying down.
The surgeon feels the protrusion, asks the patient to cough a little, strain to feel the push characteristic of an umbilical hernia.
The doctor may also examine groin, thigh, scrotum in men in order to exclude inguinal and femoral hernia.

What questions can the doctor ask?

When did the protrusion in the navel appear?
Are the pains bothersome?
Are there digestive disorders: bloating, constipation, heaviness, belching, heartburn, nausea, vomiting?
Have there been previous surgeries?
Did the next of kin of the patient suffer from umbilical hernia?

Examination for umbilical hernia

Study title	Description	How is it carried out?
Ultrasound for umbilical hernia	Information that allows you to get ultrasound for umbilical hernia: the size of the hernial protrusion; an organ that is in the hernial sac; the presence and number of adhesions.	Ultrasound examination for umbilical hernia is performed in the usual way. The doctor asks the patient to lie on his back, applies a special gel to the skin in the navel area and conducts an examination using an ultrasound probe.
Herniography	A radiopaque substance is injected into the patient's abdomen, which penetrates the hernial sac and stains it. It becomes clearly visible on x-rays. The doctor prescribes herniography in the case when there are doubts about the diagnosis.	The patient must urinate before the herniography. The study is carried out in a special room, under sterile conditions. The patient is placed on the couch, local anesthesia- cut off the area on the stomach. Then a needle is inserted into the abdomen, and a contrast solution is injected through it. The patient is asked to roll over on his stomach, cough or strain - while the contrast flows into the hernial sac. They take x-rays.
CT scan	The study is carried out when the symptoms are not clearly expressed, there are doubts about the diagnosis. Computed tomography is a study that allows you to get layered sections of a certain area of the body, a clear three-dimensional image.
Radiography of the stomach and duodenum with contrast	The study allows you to suspect tumor processes in the stomach and duodenum, diseases that accompany umbilical hernia and lead to abdominal pain.	The patient is given a contrast drink, usually a solution of barium sulfate. Then X-rays are taken.
Gastroduodenoscopy - endoscopic examination of the stomach and duodenum.		the patient is placed on the couch on the left side; the doctor makes anesthesia of the mucous membrane with a spray; a special plastic mouthpiece is inserted into the mouth; a fibrogastroscope is inserted through the mouth into the patient's stomach - a thin flexible hose with a miniature video camera at the end; the doctor examines the mucous membrane of the stomach and duodenum.

Treatment of umbilical hernia in adults

Treatment of umbilical hernia in adults is only surgical. Different types of operations are used, depending on the size of the hernia, the condition of the anterior abdominal wall.

Usually, an operation for an umbilical hernia, if there is no infringement, is performed in a planned manner. During the first appointment, the doctor examines the patient, appoints a preoperative examination, the date of hospitalization in the hospital.

Preoperative examination in a patient with umbilical hernia

research on hepatitis, HIV, syphilis;
coagulogram - a blood test for clotting;
chest x-ray.

Types of operations for umbilical hernia

The operation aimed at eliminating the hernial protrusion is called hernioplasty. Types of hernioplasty that are performed for umbilical hernia:

Stretch. The patient's umbilical ring is strengthened with its own tissues. In order to close the defect, they are pulled, which is why the operation got its name.
tension-free. To strengthen the umbilical ring, special synthetic meshes are used.
Laparoscopic. The operation is performed without an incision, through punctures in the abdominal wall.

Surgical intervention is desirable to be carried out as early as possible, while the hernia is still small and can be reduced. Adults can use general anesthesia or local anesthesia - chipping the navel area with anesthetic solutions.

Tension hernioplasty

The surgeon makes an incision, provides access to the hernial sac.
Depending on the size of the hernial sac, it is either simply immersed in the abdomen, or stitched and cut off.
The umbilical ring is stitched, strengthened by neighboring tissues.

The disadvantage of this method is the high probability of recurrence: after surgery, an umbilical hernia occurs again in 4-20% of patients. Rehabilitation can take up to a year.

Tension-free hernioplasty

The operation is performed in a similar way, but the surgeon uses a special synthetic mesh to strengthen the navel. Subsequently, it grows into the surrounding tissues.

The advantage of tension-free hernioplasty is the relatively low recurrence rate. A hernia occurs again on average in only 2 patients out of 100. The rehabilitation period lasts only 30 days, even for those people who are professionally involved in sports.

Laparoscopic hernioplasty

In laparoscopic surgery, a mesh implant is also used, it is installed through a puncture in the abdominal wall. The surgeon does not make a large incision, which significantly reduces the time of postoperative rehabilitation.

But there are also certain difficulties. Laparoscopic hernioplasty requires special equipment and trained surgeons. Not every hospital has this opportunity. Operations through a puncture are contraindicated in patients with pathology of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, with a large expansion of the umbilical ring.

Surgery for strangulated umbilical hernia

In case of infringement of the umbilical hernia, the operation should be carried out on an emergency basis.

The risk of infringement does not depend on the size of the hernia - it increases the more the longer the patient does not go to the doctor.

During surgery, the doctor opens the hernial sac and examines the organ that is inside. If it is not changed, then it is simply immersed in the stomach. If part of the organ has died, it is excised. And if the doctor has doubts, he covers the organ with napkins soaked in warm saline and injects a novocaine solution.

Rehabilitation after surgery for umbilical hernia in adults

Usually, if the operation goes without complications, the patient is allowed to get up on the first day.
In the postoperative period, wearing a special bandage is indicated (when using mesh implants - about a month).
On the 10-14th day, you can start doing therapeutic exercises, but it is forbidden to perform exercises for the abdominal press.
After the operation, daily dressings are performed, the sutures are removed on the 7th day (if they do not resolve themselves).
For pain, painkillers are prescribed.
Also, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics, vitamins, immunomodulators.

Wearing a bandage for an umbilical hernia

The bandage is not a remedy for the treatment of umbilical hernia. It only helps, for the duration of wearing, to correct the hernia, to prevent its infringement.

Indications for wearing a bandage:

After an operation for an umbilical hernia, and in general with any surgical intervention, when the incision passed through the navel.
If there are temporary contraindications to surgery: acute diseases, exacerbations of chronic. After normalization of the patient's condition, surgery
Severe diseases: significant impairment of the functions of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, exhaustion, old age, malignant neoplasms etc.
Pregnancy in the later stages is also a contraindication to surgery.

The bandage is a wide belt made of elastic fabric, on inner surface which is attached a special pad-pelot anatomically shaped. It presses the navel and does not allow the hernia to protrude outward. The pellot can be connected to the bandage or fastened to it with Velcro.

Folk methods of treatment of umbilical hernia

An umbilical hernia in an adult is a disease that can only be eliminated with an operation.

“Conspiracies” and gluing coins to the navel, methods that traditional medicine often advises to use, “help” only young children, since their umbilical hernia can close on its own before the age of 5. This does not happen in adults.

Decoctions, infusions, lotions medicinal plants ineffective. With the help of them, an umbilical hernia in an adult cannot be eliminated.

Prevention of umbilical hernia

What do we have to do?	What should be avoided?
Sports, strengthening the abdominal muscles. Proper nutrition contributing to normal digestion. Occupation of special gymnastics during pregnancy, wearing a bandage. To prevent recurrence after the operation - strict adherence to the appointments and recommendations of the attending physician.	Sedentary lifestyle, permanent sedentary work. Overweight. Improper diet, leading to constipation, excessive gas formation in the abdomen. Non-compliance with the recommendations of doctors during pregnancy, after surgery for an umbilical hernia.

Pathological protrusion of the abdominal organs through the umbilical ring in medicine is classified as an umbilical hernia. Such a protrusion can significantly decrease in size or even disappear if the person is in a horizontal position. Most often, umbilical hernia is diagnosed in women.

Causes of an umbilical hernia

The disease in question is acquired, provoked by a divergence of muscle fibers along the white line of the abdomen - this condition can just appear for various reasons.

According to statistics, the following factors can provoke an umbilical hernia:

chronic;
pregnancy;
malignant and / or benign tumors in the abdominal cavity, characterized by rapid growth;
excessive physical activity;
ascites

These conditions lead to a weakening of the muscular and ligamentous apparatus - holding the abdominal organs in a normal position becomes almost impossible and they protrude through the umbilical ring. It is noteworthy that the size of the hernia can be completely different - from 1 to 20 cm and even more.

Note:in most cases, the umbilical ring with the disease in question expands by no more than 10 cm, everything else is considered an exception. If the hernia is small, then the omentum protrudes through the umbilical ring, if the hernia is large enough, then both the omentum and intestinal loops protrude through the ring.

Some experts suggest that umbilical hernia in adults has genetic predisposition. However, such a theory has not been proven, so taking it seriously or not is “purely voluntary”.

Symptoms of an umbilical hernia

An umbilical hernia can have intense and somewhat "blurred" symptoms - it depends on some factors:

whether there are adhesions in the abdominal cavity;
the general health of the patient;
the size of the umbilical hernia;
whether there is an infringement of the hernial sac.

At the very beginning of the development of the disease in question, the patient does not experience any inconvenience, embarrassment or pain. The only thing that immediately attracts attention is a slight protrusion in the navel, but they do not attach any importance to this - the protrusion does not bother and disappears as soon as the patient takes horizontal position, and pregnant ladies even take it as a feature of their condition.

In some cases, the omentum bulges so strongly that it overlaps the umbilical ring. Such a hernia never changes in size, and the disease itself proceeds without pronounced symptoms.

Note:if the omentum begins to pass through the dilated muscles, then the hernia greatly increases in size, is characterized by severe manifestations.

If the disease in question progresses, then adhesions begin to form in the abdominal cavity - this prevents the reduction of the hernial sac. In this case, any movement, tension, straining leads to disruption of the functioning of the intestine. The patient begins to complain of chronic constipation and persistent nausea, regardless of the time of eating. Especially hard similar condition occurs in women during pregnancy and with existing obesity - a growing belly puts pressure on the muscles of the abdominal wall, which provokes a deterioration in the patient's condition.

Possible Complications

No matter how long the disease in question develops, it can lead to the development of the following complications:

hernia inflammation;
stagnation of feces in the large intestine;

Of course, such complications are not necessary - many patients live with an umbilical hernia for years and do not worry about this, but you need to be prepared for any development of events. Most often, the infringement of the hernial sac is fixed - a complication is quite serious. Firstly, this condition provokes a cessation of blood circulation in the strangulated organ (omentum or intestinal loop), its tissues simply die off. Secondly, the infringement of the hernial sac is always accompanied by the development inflammatory process in the omentum, peritoneum, or intestines. Thirdly, if there is an infringement of the tissues of the peritoneum, then the patient develops acutely.

Infringement of the umbilical hernia occurs even with minor physical exertion - for example, when coughing, after sneezing, laughing, or against the background of chronic constipation. It is noteworthy that the considered type of complication always begins acutely, suddenly and is characterized by the following symptoms:

in the umbilical region, the patient has a sharp, powerful pain;
the hernial sac becomes hot and tense to the touch, it cannot be set;
nausea, vomiting, headache, fever develop rapidly - all signs of general intoxication of the body.

Note:the appearance of signs of infringement of the hernial sac is a reason to immediately seek professional medical help. Usually, in this condition, surgical treatment is performed, but only a specialist can determine the specific methods and scope of procedures.

Treatment of umbilical hernia

First of all, you need to understand which doctor to contact if you suspect an umbilical hernia. Such a specialist is a surgeon - he will conduct the necessary examinations and make an accurate diagnosis. But you will also need a consultation with a gastroenterologist and a nutritionist - these specialists will help get rid of chronic constipation, excess weight.

The only method effective treatment umbilical hernia in medicine is recognized as a surgical intervention. Yes, there is a lot of information on how to therapeutic treatment of the disease in question - the hernia is reduced. But you need to understand that such events in almost 100% of cases lead to the development of complications.

Before the doctor prescribes the surgical treatment of an umbilical hernia, the patient will have to undergo a full examination - treatment can be delayed with diagnosed heart failure, during pregnancy, against the background of exacerbated chronic diseases. If there are no interfering factors, then the specialist will offer the patient several methods of surgical treatment of the disease in question:

Tension hernioplasty. In this case, the plastic is performed according to the Mayo and Sapezhko method, only local tissues are involved. The surgeon sutures the umbilical ring in two layers in two directions (transverse and vertical). If the patient is diagnosed with obesity, then during the surgical intervention, the specialist removes excess adipose tissue.

Disadvantages of tension hernioplasty - rehabilitation period proceeds for a long time, there is no guarantee that a recurrence of an umbilical hernia will not happen.

Plastic surgery with mesh implants. The surgeon uses in his work "patches" - special materials that are inert to the internal tissues of the human body. This mesh is placed above or below the umbilical ring, and can be used even in the treatment of large hernias. According to statistics, plastic surgery with mesh implants is characterized by a short recovery period and a low percentage of the likelihood of recurrence (within 1%).

Note:these two methods of surgical treatment of umbilical hernia can be performed either with classical penetration into the abdominal cavity, or with the help of laparoscopy. Local anesthesia is used as anesthesia, but if the surgical intervention is performed in the classical way, then the patient is given general anesthesia.

Recovery after surgery

Of course, much depends on the general condition of the patient, on how professionally the operation was performed. But as a rule, the recommendations of doctors in recovery period come down to the following:

on the same day, almost immediately after surgery, the patient is allowed to get out of bed;
it is necessary to wear a special bandage - it will reduce the pressure on the seam;
on the second and subsequent days, physical activity should gradually increase;
the duration of the use of a special bandage will be determined only by the doctor - this device cannot be removed without his permission;
after 10-15 days, the patient is allowed to make short runs, do simple exercises as part of the exercise;
lifting weights, any power loads to the patient are allowed only 30 days after surgery, even if used laparoscopic method surgical treatment.

How to treat an umbilical hernia in pregnant women

According to statistics, the pathology in question is most often diagnosed in women during pregnancy. But this does not mean that doctors will prescribe surgical treatment - stress and drugs that are used for anesthesia are unlikely to have a beneficial effect on the intrauterine development of the fetus. What to do for pregnant women with a diagnosis of umbilical hernia:

It is believed that the optimal time for surgical treatment umbilical hernia will become 6-8 months after childbirth. By the way, during his work, the surgeon can eliminate the defects of the abdominal wall that formed during the period of bearing a child (for example, stretch marks), excess adipose tissue.

To prevent the development of the condition in question, it is necessary to observe clear preventive measures. These include:

abdominal muscle training - you can do physical exercises on the press every day, which will lead to building and strengthening muscle mass;
- obesity is one of the causes of umbilical hernia, so you need to adjust your diet and lifestyle in time if you find extra pounds;
refusal to lift weights and excessive physical exertion - of course, this does not apply to professional athletes;
during the period of bearing a child, wearing a special bandage should be mandatory.