Ask a doctor on the topic of Surgery

Recurrent hernia following scar hernia surgery in the past laparotomy.

November 22, 2012 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Michael Schröter

Hello! Four months ago, I had a stomach operation (conglomerate tumor with suspected appendicitis). The tumor and a portion of my intestine (approximately 30 cm) were removed through a stomach incision. Three months later, I had another stomach operation due to an incisional hernia. The scar is about 20 cm long and was stapled with 56 staples.
For the past two weeks, I have been experiencing pain when coughing, sneezing, getting out of bed, changing positions in bed, and standing up from bed. I also feel some discomfort at rest. The pain is located slightly above the right groin and is described as burning and stabbing. Today, a doctor mentioned that it might be another hernia. Could this be the case, or what else could be causing this? Thank you!
I am a 40-year-old female with no other medical conditions.

Dr. med. Michael Schröter

Good evening,

Unfortunately, I cannot diagnose over the internet. A medical examination is necessary for that. However, it is possible that a new fracture has occurred, which could be causing the pain. Additionally, the examining physician must consider adhesions as part of the differential diagnosis. Adhesions are fibrous bands that connect the intestine to the abdominal wall and can cause pain when the intestine moves against the abdominal wall. This is very painful and often occurs after surgeries.
In cases of severe adhesions, they must be surgically removed to prevent the development of an intestinal obstruction.

I wish you a speedy recovery.