What is an incisional or ventral hernia?
• Ventral hernias usually arise in the abdominal wall where a previous surgical incision was made. In this area the abdominal muscles have weakened (age, postoperative wound infection etc); this results in a bulge or a tear. This can allow a loop of intestines or other abdominal contents to push through the defect. If the abdominal contents get stuck within the sac, they can become trapped. This can lead to serious problems requiring emergency surgery. • They do not get better over time.
