Week 5 - Hernia and Hemorrhoids Flashcards
what is a hernia
- protrusion of a viscus (usually intestines or tissue) thru an abnormal opening or a weakened area in the wall of the cavitity in which it is normally contained
what is a reducible hernia
- if the hernia can be pushed back into the abdominal cavity
what is an irreducible hernia
- if the hernia cannot be pushed back into the abdominal cavity
- either by manipulation or when they lie down
what is a strangulated hernia
- when the hernia is irreducible and the intestinal blood flow and blood supply are obstructed
what does a strangulated hernia result in
- acute intestinal obstruction and ischemia
- necrosis & gangrene if not immediate care
= needs surgery
what are types of hernia (4)
- inguinal
- femoral
- umbilical
- incisional (or ventral)
where does a hernia commonly occur
- over the involved area when the pt stands or strains
what are symptoms of a strangulated hernia (4)
S&S of bowel obstruction
- vomitting
- crampy abdominal pain
- distension
- and severe pain
what are symptoms of a hernia
- pain to area of hernia
what can be used to diagnose a hernia
- history
- physical exam
what is the treatment of choice for hernias and why?
- surgery
- to prevent the complication of strangulation
what is the surgical repair of a hernia called
- herniorrhaphy
what may be needed to treat a strangulated hernia (2)
- bowel resection of involved area
- temporary ostomy
what may be used to keep a hernia in place
- a truss
what is a truss and what does it do
- a firm pad placed over the hernia and held in place w a belt
- keeps hernia from protruding
when should a truss not be used
- if the hernia is not reducible