Umbillical Hernia

Question 1

What classification is a umbilical hernia?

Answer 1

Congenital hernia

Question 2

How does an umbilical hernia happen?

Answer 2

The umbilicus functions as a channel that allows blood flow between the foetus and the placenta. This should close shortly after birth, but in some cases closure is incomplete, leaving a hole in the abdomen through which contents can herniate.

Question 3

How is an umbilical hernia identified?

Answer 3

Small swelling near the umbilicus

Question 4

What happens if larger hernias are left un-repaired?

Answer 4

; if they are left the hernia contents can become incarcerated and strangulated.

Question 5

when are repairs done?

Answer 5

Same time as de-sexing

Question 6

what does the procedure involve?

Answer 6

The procedure involves making a midline incision into the abdomen, exposing the hernia, the defect is sutured closed using absorbable sutures.

Question 7

Patient Prep

Answer 7

The patient should be clipped from the xiphoid to the pubis and the skin aseptically prepared.

Question 8

Patient Positioning

Answer 8

The patient is placed in dorsal recumbency. The limbs should be secured out of the way with the use of leg ties. If the patient is deep chested, sandbags or a V trough may be of use to keep the patient as straight as possible.

Question 9

Instrumentation / materials

Answer 9

A general surgical kit is all that is required. A fenestrated drape, reflecting the size of the patient, is appropriate for this procedure.