An epigastric hernia is the outward bulging of a portion of the abdominal wall that occurs in the midline between the umbilicus and the breastbone. They occur more frequently in men than women.
Typically epigastric hernias present as a small, soft, reducible bulge in the midline above the belly button. Pain is often not present without provocation but can be elicited with pressure and palpation. As time goes by these openings get larger and the risk of severe complications (incarceration, obstruction, strangulation) increase significantly.
An epigastric hernia will not heal by itself and does require surgery to be repaired. The right surgery for you will depend on the size of the hernia, the condition of your tissues, and what your general health is like. Most patients will be able to go home the same day.
PETE GARCIA M.D.
GENERAL VASCULAR
&
MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY
Board Certified & Practicing Medicine for Over 20 Years
