Diagnosis and treatment of umbilical hernia at OpenMed Warsaw
An umbilical hernia is a condition in which the contents of the abdominal cavity protrude through a weakened area around the navel. It most often takes the form of a soft lump that may enlarge during coughing, physical effort or tensing of the abdominal muscles. If you notice such symptoms in yourself, we invite you to OpenMed in Warsaw (Wola and Praga). We offer surgical consultation, diagnostics and a treatment plan tailored to the severity of the problem.
An umbilical hernia develops as a result of weakening of the abdominal wall and increased pressure inside the abdominal cavity. It can occur both in adults and in children. In adults it usually does not resolve spontaneously and may enlarge over time, which is why a specialist assessment is required.
Causes and symptoms of an umbilical hernia
The most common causes include excess body weight, pregnancy, chronic cough, constipation and work that involves heavy lifting. Risk factors also include weakening of the abdominal muscles and previous abdominal surgery.
The symptoms may initially be mild. Most patients notice a soft bulge in the umbilical area, which may disappear in a lying position. Over time, discomfort, a sensation of pulling or pain may appear, especially during physical effort. In some cases complications develop, such as incarceration of the hernia, which requires urgent surgical intervention.
Surgeons diagnosing and treating umbilical hernia
Book a consultation to discuss the hernia and the best surgical treatment options.
What does diagnosis of an umbilical hernia at OpenMed look like?
The basis of the diagnosis is a surgical consultation. Our doctors take a medical history, assess the appearance of the lesion and perform a palpation examination. In many cases this allows the diagnosis to be made during the visit itself.
In ambiguous situations or when complications are suspected, additional imaging tests are ordered, most often an abdominal ultrasound. The aim of the diagnostic work-up is not only to confirm the hernia but also to assess its size and the risk of complications.
Treatment of an umbilical hernia
In adults, surgery is the only method that allows the umbilical hernia to be treated permanently. At OpenMed, qualification for surgery takes place after a thorough assessment of the patient's condition and a discussion of the available treatment methods.
In some cases, with small hernias that do not cause complaints and do not enlarge, periodic observation under medical supervision is possible.
Surgical treatment consists of closing the defect in the abdominal wall. Depending on the size of the hernia and individual indications, the following are used:
- a surgical procedure consisting of closing the defect in the abdominal wall,
- reinforcement of the abdominal wall using a surgical mesh, which reduces the risk of recurrence.
The choice of method depends on the size of the hernia, the condition of the tissues and the patient's general health.
During the consultation, our specialists discuss the course of the procedure, the available surgical techniques and the recovery process. The patient receives clear information about how to prepare for the treatment and what to expect after surgery.
Return to fitness and follow-up
After surgical treatment, it is important to follow the recommendations regarding limitation of physical effort and a gradual return to activity. Our doctors set up an individual follow-up plan and provide recommendations on the prevention of recurrences, including maintaining a healthy body weight and avoiding excessive strain on the abdominal muscles.
Treatment of umbilical hernia at OpenMed Warsaw
If you notice symptoms of an umbilical hernia or have concerns about changes around the navel, book a consultation at OpenMed Warsaw (Wola or Praga). Telephone and online registration available - we will help you choose a convenient appointment and plan further treatment.
FAQ Umbilical hernia Warsaw
In adults it most often does not resolve spontaneously and requires surgical assessment.
In most cases yes, particularly when the hernia causes symptoms or is enlarging.
The return to everyday activity usually takes several weeks, depending on the surgical method and the patient's condition.
Yes, in case of incarceration, serious complications may develop that require urgent surgical intervention.
A typical symptom is a soft bulge near the navel that may reduce in the lying position and increase during coughing or exertion. If in doubt, consult a surgeon.
In young children umbilical hernias often close spontaneously by the age of 4-5. If they do not resolve or are large, the doctor may recommend surgical treatment.