What is a hernia

A hernia is the protrusion of abdominal contents (usually bowel or fatty tissue) through a weak point or defect in the abdominal wall. Hernias are among the most common surgical conditions. There are several types of abdominal wall hernias, usually classified according to their anatomical location.

Common types of hernia

Inguinal hernia: is a hernia that occurs in the groin area — the region between the abdomen and the thigh. It is the most common type of hernia and occurs predominantly in men.

Femoral hernia: occurs in the upper thigh region. It is less common and is seen mainly in women. Surgical treatment is usually recommended due to the increased risk of strangulation (trapping of the bowel within the hernia, leading to impaired blood supply and possible bowel necrosis).

Umbilical hernia:is a hernia that develops around the umbilical area (belly button).

Epigastric hernia: occurs along the midline of the abdomen, between the breastbone (sternum) and the umbilicus.

Incisional (Post-operative) hernia: develops at the site of a previous abdominal surgical incision. It usually requires surgical repair.

Symptoms

A visible or palpable lump/swelling, which may come and go or increase in size with increased pressure inside the abdomen (for example during lifting heavy objects or coughing), and may become smaller or disappear when lying down. Mild pain, a feeling of heaviness or burning sensation in the area of the hernia, which often comes and goes. In cases of strangulation (bowel entrapment): severe persistent pain and swelling (possibly with redness of the skin over the area), often accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a hernia is mainly made through medical history and clinical examination. An ultrasound scan can confirm the diagnosis in uncertain cases and provide additional information. In selected cases, computed tomography (CT scan) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be helpful.

Treatment

The only definitive treatment for hernias is surgical repair. Surgical treatment is recommended for symptomatic hernias, as well as for certain asymptomatic hernias that carry an increased risk of strangulation. In the majority of cases, hernia repair can be performed laparoscopically (minimally invasive surgery) with the placement of a special mesh.

Dr Michaelides is a member of the German and European Hernia Society. He has extensive experience in surgical hernia repair, using both laparoscopic and open techniques, depending on the individual needs of each patient. He has participated in numerous conferences and hands-on training courses focusing on hernia surgery, most recently the Annual International Congress of the European Hernia Society in Portugal (06/2026). There, he also participated in a two-day practical cadaveric workshop on hernia repair, where he trained in advanced surgical techniques.