Ventral and Umbilical Hernias
Understanding Ventral and Umbilical Hernias
When I talk with patients about ventral or umbilical hernias, I explain that these occur when a weakness develops in the abdominal wall, allowing tissue or intestine to bulge through. An umbilical hernia forms around the belly button, while a ventral hernia can develop anywhere in the central abdominal wall, often at the site of a previous surgical incision. Risk factors include prior surgeries, obesity, pregnancy, chronic coughing, and heavy lifting. These hernias don’t heal on their own and, over time, they tend to enlarge, causing increasing pain, discomfort, and risk of complications.
What Happens Without Treatment
If left untreated, ventral or umbilical hernias may continue to grow, leading to greater pain and lifestyle limitations. More concerning is the risk of bowel becoming trapped in the hernia, which can cut off blood supply—a surgical emergency known as strangulation. While some small, asymptomatic hernias can be safely observed, most symptomatic hernias eventually require repair. Delaying surgery can make the hernia larger and the eventual repair more complex, so timely management is usually the best approach.
Robotic-Assisted Repair
Today, robotic-assisted hernia repair offers a safer, more precise way to address ventral and umbilical hernias compared to older open techniques. Using small incisions, I’m able to work inside the abdomen with robotic instruments that give me a magnified 3D view and excellent control. This allows for a tension-free closure of the defect and precise placement of mesh, which is critical in strengthening the abdominal wall and reducing recurrence rates. For incisional hernias especially, the robotic platform lets me separate scar tissue and reconstruct the abdominal wall with far less trauma than in the past.
The Role of Mesh
Some patients ask why mesh is necessary. In almost all ventral and umbilical hernia repairs, mesh is essential because it reinforces the weakened tissue, dramatically lowering the risk of recurrence. Without mesh, the recurrence rates are much higher, especially in larger hernias. Modern meshes are designed to be safe, durable, and well-tolerated by the body. When placed correctly during robotic surgery, the mesh is positioned in a way that minimizes discomfort and optimizes long-term outcomes.
Recovery and Outcomes
One of the biggest advantages of robotic surgery is recovery. While traditional open repairs often required long hospital stays and weeks of limited activity, most robotic ventral hernia patients go home the same day or within 24 hours. Pain is typically less, and many patients are back to light activity in just a few days. I generally advise avoiding heavy lifting for about 4–6 weeks, but most patients resume normal routines far sooner than they expect. Overall, robotic repair with mesh provides excellent durability, low recurrence rates, and a faster, safer return to daily life.