Which medical professionals are best equipped to diagnose and treat hernias. How do general surgeons and specialists approach hernia care. What factors should patients consider when choosing a hernia doctor.

Understanding Hernias: Types, Symptoms, and Diagnosis

Hernias occur when an organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. They can develop in various parts of the body, with abdominal hernias being the most common type. To properly address hernias, it’s crucial to understand their different types and associated symptoms.

Common Types of Hernias

• Inguinal hernia: Occurs in the groin area
• Femoral hernia: Appears in the upper thigh
• Umbilical hernia: Develops near the navel
• Incisional hernia: Forms at the site of a previous abdominal surgery
• Hiatal hernia: Affects the upper stomach and diaphragm

Symptoms of hernias can vary depending on their location and severity. Common signs include a visible bulge, pain or discomfort in the affected area, and a feeling of heaviness or pressure. In some cases, hernias may not cause noticeable symptoms and are discovered during routine medical examinations.

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective hernia treatment. How do doctors diagnose hernias? Typically, a physical examination is the first step, where the doctor checks for visible bulges and palpates the area to detect any abnormalities. In some cases, imaging tests such as ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and assess the hernia’s size and location.

General Surgeons: Primary Care Providers for Hernia Treatment

When it comes to hernia treatment, general surgeons play a crucial role as the primary care providers. These medical professionals are trained to diagnose, treat, and perform surgeries for a wide range of conditions, including hernias.

General surgeons undergo extensive training in surgical procedures and possess the skills necessary to repair various types of hernias. They are often the first point of contact for patients seeking hernia treatment and can provide comprehensive care throughout the diagnosis, treatment, and recovery process.

Expertise of General Surgeons in Hernia Care

General surgeons are well-equipped to handle most hernia cases due to their broad surgical knowledge and experience. They can perform both open and laparoscopic hernia repair surgeries, depending on the patient’s specific needs and the hernia’s characteristics.

How do general surgeons approach hernia treatment? Their approach typically involves:

1. Thorough patient evaluation and medical history review
2. Physical examination and diagnostic tests
3. Discussion of treatment options, including surgical and non-surgical approaches
4. Preoperative preparation and patient education
5. Performance of hernia repair surgery when necessary
6. Postoperative care and follow-up

Many general surgeons develop a particular interest and expertise in hernia repair, making them excellent choices for patients seeking specialized care without the need for a subspecialist.

Specialized Hernia Surgeons: Advanced Expertise in Complex Cases

While general surgeons are capable of handling most hernia cases, some patients may benefit from the care of specialized hernia surgeons. These professionals focus specifically on hernia repair and often have advanced training and experience in dealing with complex or recurrent hernias.

Specialized hernia surgeons may be particularly beneficial for patients with:

• Large or complex hernias
• Recurrent hernias
• Multiple hernias
• Hernias in difficult-to-treat locations
• Complications from previous hernia surgeries

These specialists often work in dedicated hernia centers or clinics, where they have access to the latest technologies and techniques in hernia repair. They may also be involved in research and clinical trials, contributing to advancements in hernia treatment.

Advanced Techniques Employed by Hernia Specialists

Specialized hernia surgeons often utilize cutting-edge techniques and technologies to improve patient outcomes. Some advanced approaches include:

• Robotic-assisted hernia repair
• Minimally invasive techniques for complex hernias
• Custom-tailored mesh solutions
• Advanced tissue reconstruction methods
• Nerve-sparing techniques to reduce postoperative pain

These advanced techniques can lead to better surgical outcomes, reduced recovery times, and lower risks of hernia recurrence in complex cases.

Gastroenterologists: Their Role in Hiatal Hernia Management

While most hernias are treated by surgeons, hiatal hernias often involve the expertise of gastroenterologists. These specialists focus on disorders of the digestive system and play a crucial role in diagnosing and managing hiatal hernias.

Gastroenterologists are particularly important in the treatment of hiatal hernias because these hernias can significantly impact the function of the esophagus and stomach. They often work in conjunction with surgeons to provide comprehensive care for patients with hiatal hernias.

Gastroenterologists’ Approach to Hiatal Hernias

How do gastroenterologists contribute to hiatal hernia care? Their approach typically includes:

1. Diagnostic procedures such as endoscopy and esophageal manometry
2. Evaluation of associated conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
3. Non-surgical management through lifestyle modifications and medications
4. Collaboration with surgeons for cases requiring surgical intervention
5. Ongoing monitoring and management of symptoms

Gastroenterologists play a vital role in determining the best course of treatment for hiatal hernias, whether it involves conservative management or surgical repair.

Pediatric Surgeons: Specialists for Childhood Hernias

When it comes to hernias in children, pediatric surgeons are the go-to specialists. These surgeons have specialized training in treating surgical conditions in infants, children, and adolescents, including various types of hernias that are common in younger patients.

Pediatric surgeons are particularly important for treating hernias in children because they understand the unique anatomical and physiological considerations of growing bodies. They are skilled in performing age-appropriate surgeries and providing care that takes into account the long-term growth and development of their young patients.

Common Childhood Hernias Treated by Pediatric Surgeons

• Inguinal hernias in infants and children
• Umbilical hernias
• Epigastric hernias
• Congenital diaphragmatic hernias

Pediatric surgeons not only perform the necessary surgical procedures but also provide comprehensive care throughout the child’s recovery and growth. They work closely with pediatricians and other specialists to ensure the best possible outcomes for their young patients.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hernia Doctor

Selecting the right doctor for hernia treatment is crucial for achieving the best possible outcome. Patients should consider several factors when choosing a hernia specialist:

Key Considerations in Selecting a Hernia Specialist

1. Experience and expertise: Look for surgeons with a proven track record in hernia repair.
2. Specialization: Consider whether a general surgeon or a specialized hernia surgeon is more appropriate for your case.
3. Surgical techniques: Inquire about the types of procedures the surgeon offers, including minimally invasive options.
4. Hospital affiliation: Check the quality and reputation of the hospital where the surgeon operates.
5. Patient reviews and outcomes: Research patient feedback and success rates.
6. Insurance coverage: Ensure the surgeon accepts your insurance plan.
7. Communication style: Choose a doctor who explains things clearly and addresses your concerns.

How can patients make an informed decision when choosing a hernia doctor? It’s advisable to schedule consultations with multiple surgeons to discuss your case and treatment options. This allows you to compare approaches and find the best fit for your specific needs.

The Multidisciplinary Approach to Hernia Care

In many cases, effective hernia treatment involves a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together various medical specialists to provide comprehensive care. This collaborative effort ensures that patients receive the most appropriate treatment tailored to their individual needs.

Key Players in Multidisciplinary Hernia Care

• General surgeons
• Specialized hernia surgeons
• Gastroenterologists (for hiatal hernias)
• Pediatric surgeons (for childhood hernias)
• Anesthesiologists
• Pain management specialists
• Physical therapists
• Nutritionists

How does a multidisciplinary approach benefit hernia patients? By involving various specialists, patients receive comprehensive care that addresses not only the hernia itself but also any underlying conditions, potential complications, and overall health considerations. This holistic approach can lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life for hernia patients.

Emerging Trends in Hernia Treatment and Specialist Care

The field of hernia treatment is continually evolving, with new techniques and technologies emerging to improve patient outcomes. Staying informed about these advancements can help patients make better decisions about their care and choose specialists who are at the forefront of hernia treatment.

Recent Innovations in Hernia Care

• Robotic-assisted surgery for enhanced precision
• Bioengineered mesh materials for improved integration and reduced complications
• Nerve block techniques for better postoperative pain management
• Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols for faster recovery
• Personalized treatment plans based on genetic and lifestyle factors

How are these innovations shaping the future of hernia care? As techniques and technologies advance, hernia specialists are able to offer more tailored treatments with potentially better outcomes, reduced recovery times, and lower risks of complications or recurrence.

Patients seeking hernia treatment should inquire about the latest advancements and whether their chosen specialist incorporates these innovations into their practice. This can help ensure access to the most up-to-date and effective treatments available.

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Hernia Center | Hartford Hospital

The Most Experienced Hernia Care Team

Whether your needs are common or complex, you’ll get the most experienced team at Hartford Hospital.

Types of Hernias

There are several different types, but inguinal hernias are by far the most common.

An inguinal hernia refers to a hernia in the groin — the area where the abdomen and the thighs connect. Inguinal hernias account for about 80 percent of all hernias, and they are much more common in men than women. However, women can also experience them.

Another type of hernia is a femoral hernia. Femoral canals are channels between the abdomen and thighs where blood vessels and nerves pass. Any bulge is usually in the upper part of the affected thigh just below the groin. Femoral hernias account for about 4 percent of groin-area hernias, but are much more common in women than in men.

Ventral hernias are a protrusion through a weakness in the muscles that form the (anterior) abdominal wall. Ventral hernias present with the same symptoms and risks as other hernias.

Finally, the most common ventral hernias are umbilical hernias which are associated with a weakness at the umbilicus — more commonly known as the naval. In the womb, it is normal for some of a fetus’ intestines to be located in a sac within the umbilical cord outside the abdomen — the abdominal cavity doesn’t develop at the same rate as the intestines. By birth, the intestines normally have returned to the abdomen and the opening is closed up. If the closure is defective, an umbilical hernia can result, either at birth or as a result of weakening later in life.

Repairs

Hernias occur because of weakness in the supporting tissue against which an organ or other tissue exerts pressure. Hernias can be associated with organs throughout the body, whether an inguinal hernia in the groin area, a hiatal hernia where the stomach meets the esophagus, or even a hernia of the iris in the eye. Inguinal hernias are by far the most common type. In some cases, hernias cause pain and discomfort; others may show no symptoms at all.

Hernia repair is essential, since even a small hernia will not cure itself and will grow larger and possibly more serious over time. Surgical repair is the only effective treatment for hernias — but it is highly effective, with hernias recurring in less than 10 percent of patients. Many surgical techniques are available, ranging from traditional conventional approaches to laparoscopic and robotic-assisted procedures using flexible fiber-optic instruments and minimal incisions.

During your initial consultation, we will compile your complete medical history and give you a thorough physical examination. This will help us assess your needs and determine the right hernia repair procedure for you.

Hernia repair operative techniques include:

• Open Tension Free Mesh Repair
• Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair
• Open Umbilical Hernia Repair with or without mesh
• Laparoscopic Umbilical/Ventral/Incisional Hernia Repairs with mesh
• Complex Abdominal Wall Reconstruction (open and minimally invasive)
• Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Abdominal Wall Reconstruction (AWR)
• Spigelian Hernia Repair
• Lumbar Repair
• Parastomal Hernia Repair

Because every hernia is different, each technique requires an experienced, specialized team who can personalize your care.

After Care

Hernias disrupt your life. That’s why our hernia team begins with recovery in mind: our goal is to get you back to the life you were living before this inconvenient interruption.

Our multidisciplinary team uses the latest treatments in hernia surgery for the best recovery experience possible. These techniques are designed to help you to return to everyday activities as quickly as possible.

When hernia surgery is straightforward, the surgery is done on an outpatient basis, meaning you go home the same day. You can expect your recovery to be from 1 to 3 weeks. If your surgery is more complex, you may need inpatient surgery, which means you will stay overnight or several days in the hospital. In this case, your recovery would be a bit longer, anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks.

The restrictions you have during your recovery are based on your personal and professional lifestyle. For several weeks following surgery, you won’t be allowed to lift anything over 10 pounds. Restrictions may last anywhere from 6 weeks to 3 months depending on the complexity of your case and how strenuous your typical daily activities are.

We also follow several best-practice protocols to ensure your pain is under control. We prescribe a combination of anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic and neuro-modulator medications to reduce your pain and keep you comfortable, while minimizing opioid use.

People who have had recurrent hernias often have weakness in their abdominal wall, the group of muscles that keep organs inside the body. Physical therapy is often used to help you move better and relieve pain after hernia repair. It also helps restore your physical function and fitness level. The goal of including physical therapy in the recovery process is to make daily tasks and activities easier, like walking, going up stairs or getting in and out of bed.

Our Team

Hartford Hospital’s Hernia Center features a team of experienced professionals performing groin, abdominal, umbilical and incisional hernia repairs, based on your individual needs. Our multidisciplinary team includes general surgeons, skilled advanced practitioners and expert nursing staff. Should you need other providers to help manage your treatment, you’ll have access to an entire network of the very best providers in a variety of specialties – like colorectal surgeons and plastic surgeons – who can consult with your primary team. This is a major advantage of having your procedure at Hartford Hospital.

Because our primary focus is hernia disease, you are guaranteed expert care using the most current treatments by experienced and dedicated healthcare professionals. All center surgeons are board-certified, ensuring you receive the highest quality care and all your questions are answered.

Name		Specialties	Location
	Chukwumah, Chike V., MD 4.9 /5 145 surveys 860.246.2071	General Surgery	Hartford Avon Manchester Show Less
	Curtis, David Eugene, MD 4. 8 /5 86 surveys 860.696.2040	Hepatobiliary and Surgical Oncology General Surgery Surgical Oncology Show Less	Hartford Glastonbury Manchester West Hartford Show Less
	Daoud, Vladimir Paul, MD 860. 246.2071	General Surgery	Hartford Bloomfield Manchester Show Less
	Hannoush, Edward J. , MD 4.8 /5 168 surveys 860.246.2071	Bariatric Surgery General Surgery Show Less	Glastonbury Hartford Bloomfield Farmington Show Less
	Papasavas, Pavlos K. , MD, FACS, FASMBS 4.9 /5 173 surveys 860.246.2071	Bariatric Surgery General Surgery Show Less	Glastonbury Bloomfield Farmington Hartford Show Less
	Tishler, Darren Scott, MD, FACS, FASMBS 4. 8 /5 217 surveys 860.246.2071	Bariatric Surgery General Surgery Show Less	Glastonbury Manchester Show Less

Osteopaths.

Making an appointment with an osteopath doctor in Moscow. Where does a good osteopath see?

Treatment without pain, medication or surgery

Herniated disc (often called herniated disc ) is a very serious disease. It is not only accompanied by very severe back pain, but also leads to dysfunction of the spine and the functioning of internal organs.

For example, a herniated disc in the cervical spine causes headache and pain in the arms. A hernia in the thoracic spine can lead to disruption of the lungs and heart. A hernia in the lumbar spine leads to pain in the legs. A neglected hernia can even cause complete paralysis. Therefore, when back pain occurs, it is necessary to carry out a complete diagnosis as soon as possible and, if a hernia is detected, immediately begin treatment.

Hernia is one of the main causes of back pain. According to statistics, it is diagnosed in almost 75% of people who come to clinics because of back pain.

What is a herniated disc and what causes it?

Intervertebral hernia develops gradually due to the accumulation of negative factors. These include spinal injuries, inadequate physical activity, poor posture, weak back muscle corset, metabolic disorders, age-related changes, heredity, and even infections. Often this disease affects those who are engaged in physical labor or lifting weights with age, but in recent years, the intervertebral hernia has become “younger”. The reason is the sedentary lifestyle of young people, which breaks posture and weakens the muscular corset.

The intervertebral disc consists of a nucleus surrounded by annulus fibrosus. With strong twisting against the background of compression or stretching, the vertebrae put pressure on the nucleus, and it on the annulus fibrosus. If at some point the fibrous ring does not withstand the load, a protrusion or rupture of the disc (herniation) occurs. Often the deformed area affects the nerve processes and roots of the spinal cord, which leads to disruption of the organs controlled by this section.

How is a herniated disc usually treated?

With the problem of intervertebral hernia, a person most often turns to a neurologist, surgeon, orthopedist or vertebrologist (chiropractor). Doctors diagnose a severe pain syndrome, deformity of the intervertebral disc and compression of the nerve roots. Accordingly, the treatment is aimed at removing these manifestations and the apparent cause (hernia), without delving into why it was formed. An X-ray, ultrasound, CT or MRI is prescribed, and, depending on the condition of the hernia, they offer manual or other techniques for traction of the spine and reduction of the hernia, or surgical intervention.

Recently, there has been a widespread interest in operations all over the world. Previously, it was prescribed only when the hernia caused paralysis of an arm, leg, or other organ, or with rapid deterioration. Now the indications for surgical intervention are expanding all the time. It turns out that classical medicine prefers to simplify the situation by quickly and abruptly intervening in the process, instead of long and carefully restoring the natural state of the spine. In addition, with any treatment techniques, patients are prescribed painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs, which, with prolonged use, are not harmless to the body.

Meanwhile, according to statistics from American scientists, about 70% of people with herniated discs can successfully recover without surgery.

What treatment of herniated discs does osteopathy offer?

In contrast to the approach of classical medicine, in the view of osteopathy, a hernia is only a consequence of some other disorders. It does not appear suddenly, out of nothing. And therefore, osteopathic doctors try to identify the root causes of the pathology and eliminate them in the first place. The most common causes are:

• Violation of blood circulation and innervation of the intervertebral disc.
• Osteochondrosis and other degenerative diseases of the spine.
• Curvature of the spine, scoliosis, posture disorders.
• Pathologies of internal organs that can distort muscle tone and, through them, distort the skeleton.

Many of these root causes can be eliminated or delayed for many years with the help of osteopathic techniques that restore the mobility of the vertebrae and the circulation of blood, lymph and cerebrospinal fluid. When the intervertebral disc begins to receive a sufficient amount of blood with oxygen and nutrients, it recovers better and withstands damaging loads.

Therefore, the osteopath aims not only to quickly relieve pain or set the disc back into place, but eliminates all the factors that led to this state of affairs. In osteopathy, techniques are used that, on the one hand, have a softer and more precise effect on a person than, for example, in manual therapy, and on the other hand, they penetrate deeper and affect not only bones and muscles, removing blockages and clamps in all structures. organism.

The result is pain relief, reduction of hernia and normal distribution of the load on the spine. Concerning the effectiveness of osteopathy in the treatment of intervertebral hernias, evidence-based studies have been conducted and a number of scientific papers have been written. It has been established that the effect of osteopathic treatment, unlike other methods, persists for several years.

Case study

Vladimir, 45 years old. Six months ago, I was diagnosed with a herniated disc, I was worried about constant pain in my right hand, numbness in my fingers. Surgery was recommended. After the first session of osteopathic treatment, the intensity of pain decreased markedly, the patient stopped taking painkillers. With each session, the pain became less and less noticeable, mobility and sensitivity were restored. After 6 sessions, the spine recovered.

Doctor: Lukashov Nikolai Petrovich
Osteopath, sports medicine doctor, specialist in exercise therapy and rehabilitation.

Patient reviews

I want to thank the talented doctor Loshkareva Larisa Spartakovna for returning to a full life! Six months ago, was diagnosed with a hernia of the intervertebral disc , she was worried about constant pain in her right hand, numbness of the fingers, surgical treatment was recommended. After the first session of Larisa Spartakovna, the intensity of the pain decreased noticeably, I stopped taking painkillers. With each session it became easier and easier, after 6 sessions the pain was completely gone. Many thanks to the excellent specialist Larisa Spartakovna! Vladimir Alekseevich

• Doctor: Loshkareva Larisa Spartakovna
  Osteopath, surgeon, resuscitator, anesthesiologist, gerontologist

What can I say about Alexander Semyonovich?… After my first visit, I was shocked. This simply cannot be! I have intervertebral hernia , recommendations from all doctors – surgery, any movement – pain in the lumbar, moved so “grimacing” that it looked like a question mark. After the first session, the spasm was almost completely relieved, I was able to lean forward a little, which I could not do for 1.5 months. After the second session, there was practically no pain left. Returning to normal life after 5 weeks of constant pain is an indescribable feeling! And to everything else, this is the only doctor who explained to me in a simple and understandable language the essence of the processes occurring in the body. The most striking thing is how the doctor feels someone else’s body, that it is not going the way nature should. And, most importantly, he knows how to fix it. Unfortunately, there is no way to contact him regularly, but as far as possible I try to get to him for a session. Thank you, Alexander Semyonovich, I am very grateful to you! Igor

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A herniated disc, or, as it is often called, a herniated disc of the spine is a very common pathology that affects several aspects of the patient’s health at the same time. First of all, this disease causes severe pain to the patient. In addition, it can lead to the development of numerous complications, among which are:0005

• decreased sensitivity of the muscles of the buttocks, thighs, legs;
• paresis and complete paralysis of the muscles of the lower extremities;
• various disorders of the functioning of the pelvic organs.

Patients with scoliosis and other posture disorders, obesity, lack of certain vitamins and nutrients in the body, as well as the elderly, whose intervertebral cartilage may undergo age-related changes, are primarily at risk of developing this pathology.

How can manual therapy help with spinal hernia?

Some patients consider manual therapy to be nothing more than one of the different types of massage. Despite the outward similarity, the chiropractor works in a completely different way. Its main task is to properly warm up the patient’s muscles in the affected area, after which, with the help of gentle pressure, he tries to eliminate the displacement of the “popped out” intervertebral disc and release the pinched nerves, relieving pain.

A qualified chiropractor – and in our medical center in St. Petersburg, such specialists accept patients – will not take responsibility for the treatment of an unexamined patient. Be sure to bring an x-ray of the area of ​​the spine that causes concern with you to your appointment! The hernia should be visible on it in several projections.

Manual therapy is one of the most effective ways to treat herniated cervical and lumbar spine. At the same time, treatment can be started at any stage of the disease, regardless of how strongly the fibrous ring surrounding the intervertebral disc protrudes. However, by seeking the help of a specialist at the very beginning of the disease, it is possible to prevent its progression and the development of numerous complications. Do not wait until the discomfort and pain become unbearable – contact us!

Methods that a chiropractor uses in the treatment of a patient with a hernia

Depending on which part of the spine the hernia is located in and the cause of its development, as well as the presence of concomitant diseases in the patient, the treatment regimen is developed individually in each case. At the same time, manual therapy methods are not its only component. Treatment also includes making adjustments to the patient’s lifestyle, and recommendations for changing his diet, and selecting the optimal physical activity for him, and many other equally important aspects.

In most cases, in patients with intervertebral hernia, the chiropractor carefully stretches the spine in the first sessions – this is necessary to release pinched nerves and eliminate pain. After that, the patient’s treatment regimen can be adjusted – in particular, the specialist introduces into it such manual therapy techniques that contribute to the regeneration of destroyed cartilage and muscle tissues.

Spinal herniation is often the result of a patient being overweight. In this case, the use of acupuncture, as well as exercise therapy and dieting, will also help to make the treatment more effective. If the deformation of the intervertebral cartilage is provoked by the patient’s posture disorders, then osteopathy and wearing a special corset that supports the patient’s body in the correct position will help achieve a stable positive result.

How does it work?

The positive effect of spinal hernia treatment by manual therapy methods is based on several aspects:

• first of all, it is the restoration of blood circulation in the muscle tissues, helping to maintain the anatomically correct position of the spinal column;
• in addition, under the hands of a chiropractor, structures “come to life” that nourish the cartilage tissue and provoke the flow of fluid, oxygen, and collagen naturally produced by the body into it;
• this contributes to the natural regeneration of tissues, during which it is important to take timely measures so that the restored intervertebral disc assumes the correct position.

The main sign that manual therapy really helps to eliminate a spinal hernia is the elimination or at least a decrease in the severity of spasms and pain in the affected area. Already during the first session, the patient should feel a pleasant warmth replacing them.

Results of hernia treatment with manual therapy

The effectiveness of the treatment can be judged by the presence of the following changes in the patient:

In fact, manual therapy is a universal technique for the treatment of herniated discs. It works in cases where drug treatment is ineffective or impossible for some reason. A course with a good chiropractor in many cases allows you to avoid surgical treatment, restoring health to the joints and bones without drastic measures.