Hernia Surgery
Call for an AppointmentDuke's hernia specialists provide comprehensive treatment of all types of hernias including:
- inguinal hernias
- femoral hernias
- umbilical hernias
- ventral hernias
- incisional hernias
- flank hernias
- parastomal hernias
Our surgeons are experts in repairing hernias using minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopic surgery and robot-assisted surgery. They also perform procedures such as component separations and abdominal wall reconstructions for more complex hernias. They will work with you to recommend an individualized treatment plan that will help you return to pain-free health as quickly as possible.
Hernias occur when a weak spot or hole develops in the muscle or connective tissue of the abdominal wall.
- Inguinal hernias are found in the groin.
- Femoral hernias are found in the upper thigh.
- Umbilical hernias are in the belly button.
- Ventral, incisional, and flank hernias develop as a bulge between the muscles in the abdominal wall. They may occur following pregnancy, following weight gain, or at an abdominal incision site.
- Parastomal hernias develop at the site of an ileostomy, a colostomy, or a urostomy.
Prompt Hernia Treatment Is Important
Hernias can not heal on their own. We assess your condition and recommend the most effective surgical approach.
- When appropriate, small incisions may be used that cause less pain and help you recover faster.
- When larger, complex hernias are present, or risk factors and complications such as infection are a concern, larger incisions may be necessary.
Choosing the right treatment for your hernia increases the likelihood you will have a positive outcome and decreases the risk of complications and hernia recurrence.
Duke Health offers locations throughout the Triangle. Find one near you.
Tests
Physical Exam
Your surgeon will visually and physically assess the hernia to evaluate its location and size. You will also be asked questions to understand the symptoms you are experiencing as part of a complete medical history. This will help us accurately diagnose your condition and determine the most effective treatment for you.
Imaging Tests
CT scans and ultrasounds can help characterize the size and location of your hernia which can guide an operative plan.
Where you receive your care matters. Duke University Hospital is proud of our team and the exceptional care they provide. They are why our gastroenterology and GI surgery program is nationally ranked, and the highest ranked program in North Carolina, according to U.S. News & World Report for 2021–2022.
Why Choose Duke
High-Volume Referral Center
We are a high-volume referral center for people needing surgery for simple and complex hernias. We achieve consistent, quality results, and offer pain-free solutions that address any type of hernia you may have.
Quick, Effective Hernia Treatment
We encourage the repair of hernias as quickly as possible. Hernias cannot get better without surgery. Treating hernias quickly will get you back to your living your life and can prevent the development of medical emergencies such as bowel obstruction or the need for more complex surgery later.
Comprehensive, Collaborative Support
Your team may include specialists in plastic surgery, gastrointestinal, colorectal, and gynecological surgery. We work together to repair your hernia.