Dr. Roderick Warren, general surgeon with Amberwell Health, is an expert in hernia repair and has extensive experience with innovative hernia repair techniques. In hernia repair cases that require additional support for weakened or damaged tissue, Dr. Warren often uses an advanced hernia mesh called SURGIMESH® that incorporates cutting-edge technology to help reduce chronic pain during recovery and lower the risks of complications and hernia recurrence.
Each year, millions of Americans suffer from hernias, but only a small percentage seek medical attention. Hernias can affect anyone—men, women, children, and infants. It is important to understand what a hernia is and be able to recognize one in your body. Hernias can range in severity from barely noticeable and presenting no symptoms to extremely painful and life threatening. You should see your primary care provider immediately if you think you have a hernia.
A hernia occurs when part of an internal organ or tissue pokes through a hole or a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. One sign that you might have a hernia is that you can see an abnormal bulge under your skin. You may also experience some pain when sneezing, coughing, lifting, urinating, or doing other activities that cause strain to your abdomen. Common risk factors for developing a hernia are obesity, pregnancy, old age, lifting heavy objects, straining while using the toilet, or persistent coughing or sneezing.
Hernia types vary based on their location in the body. The most common type of hernia is the inguinal hernia that occurs in the inner groin area. Hernias can also develop in the abdomen, thigh, and genitals.
A painful hernia can reduce your quality of life, preventing you from participating in normal, everyday activities, like work, exercise, and other activities that you enjoy. As soon as you suspect you have a hernia, you should see your primary care provider to discuss treatment options before the hernia gets bigger or causes serious health complications. Based on the severity of your hernia, your PCP may refer you to a surgeon to have it repaired. Hernias do not heal on their own. The only way to repair a hernia is with surgery.
Using SURGIMESH for hernia repair is one of many effective techniques Dr. Warren uses to provide excellent general surgery services at both Amberwell Atchison and Amberwell Hiawatha. From diagnosing your hernia and deciding on the best surgical procedure, through completing the hernia repair and following up with postoperative care, Dr. Warren and his expert team help you recover quickly and return to your normal daily lifestyle.
If you suspect you have a hernia, make an appointment with your primary care provider today or contact Dr. Roderick Warren’s office at 913-367-6682 to request a consultation.
