Paraumbilical and Epigastric Hernia: symptoms, types and treatments
What is a paraumbilical and epigastric hernia
Paraumbilical and epigastric hernias are defects of the abdominal wall that occur respectively:
- PARAUMBELICAL: near the navel, but not at its center.
- EPIGASTRIC: along the upper midline, between the sternum and the navel.
In both cases, preperitoneal fatty tissues — or, in more advanced situations, intestinal loops — can protrude through a small muscular defect.
Paraumbilical and Epigastric Hernia: How it manifests
The most common symptoms include:
- visible swelling in the umbilical or epigastric region,
- pain or discomfort, which worsens with exertion, coughing, or lifting weights,
- in some cases, only an initial cosmetic concern.
The hernia may remain stable for years, but more often it tends to enlarge.
Why surgery is needed?
These hernias do not heal spontaneously. Surgery is recommended because it:
- reduces pain and discomfort,
- eliminates the cosmetic defect,
- prevents complications such as incarceration and intestinal strangulation.
Today, hernia surgery is considered safer and more effective thanks to innovative, minimally invasive techniques that allow for faster recovery, reduced post-operative pain and an early return to normal activities.
What happens if it is left untreated
Without treatment, the hernia may:
- progressively increase in size,
- become painful and limiting,
- complicate with strangulation of the hernia contents, a surgical emergency with potentially serious consequences.
Planned surgery is always safer and less risky than emergency surgery, because it allows the surgeon to operate under optimal conditions and ensures a faster recovery.
For this reason, when suspicious symptoms appear, prompt medical evaluation is recommended, allowing the most appropriate time for intervention to be chosen.
Tentacle mesh Octomesh XS technique: a safe, clear, and personalized pathway
Prof. Amato invented the Octomesh XS tentacular prosthesis, specifically designed for small- and medium-sized abdominal wall defects, introducing a revolutionary fixation-free concept.
This innovative technique uses eight “tentacles” that anchor to tissues through friction (Freexation), eliminating the need for fixation stitches, particularly those on the abdominal muscles.
Main advantages include:
- optimal adhesion to tissues thanks to its multibranched structure,
- stability without fixation stitches, reducing postoperative pain,
- wide and effective defect coverage with prevention of recurrence,
- rapid and minimally invasive placement without skin sutures,
- discharge within 24 hours.
Your treatment journey step by step
Each procedure is part of a clear and shared process that accompanies the patient from the first visit to complete recovery.
Clear information and constant availability for dialogue make the journey peaceful and safe.
Start your treatment journey today
Following a safe, clear, and personalized pathway, paraumbilical and epigastric hernias are treated definitively with minimal impact on the patient’s life.
The first consultation is the first step toward recovery: a moment of listening, explanation, and building trust.
Book your consultation and face the most suitable treatment pathway for your needs with confidence.
FAQ
Can paraumbilical and epigastric hernias go back on their own?
No, they tend to grow progressively.
Is surgery painful?
Thanks to the Octomesh XS tentacle implant and the absence of fixation stitches, postoperative pain is minimal.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients return to an active life within a few days.
Is there a risk of recurrence?
Very limited, thanks to the unique design and stability of Octomesh XS.
Biography
Prof. Giuseppe Amato
Prof. Giuseppe Amato is a general surgeon, internationally recognised for his research on abdominal hernias and for developing techniques and devices that have revolutionised the treatment of this condition.
His work is based on scientific rigour, attention to the individual and a constant commitment to offering safe, minimally invasive solutions focused on patients’ quality of life.
His work combines clinical experience and research, resulting in innovative devices such as ProFlor and the Stenting & Shielding Hernia System, designed to promote tissue regeneration and minimise complications.