A hernia occurs when a part of an organ is displaced and protrudes through the structure or muscle that usually contains it. Hernias are most often thought of as a “bulge” in the abdominal wall or groin, but there are many types; some that can be seen and some that cannot.

Your doctor should examine any new lump, bump, or bulge. Not all hernias need surgery, but all of them should be looked at and discussed in order to prevent emergency situations from happening and to assure long-term health. In adults, hernias never go away. The discomfort or pain that comes from the hernia is a result of other structures of the body, such as the bowel or fat, pushing through that hole. If the lump does not go away, or if the pain continues to increase, it could indicate a bigger problem.

The surgeon will close the hole with strong sutures and then place a piece of mesh over the area to strengthen the normal tissues of the abdominal wall and help prevent the hole from coming back. We offer robotic, laparoscopic, and open repairs, as well as complex muscle and fascia rearrangements. Many general surgeons are not trained in all these areas, but Kettering Health is proud to have some of the best-trained and skilled comprehensive surgeons in the Midwest.