A ventral hernia is a medical condition where a section of the abdominal organs protrudes through the weak woman regions of the abdomen. The word "ventral" is pronounced as /ˈvɛntrəl/, where the stress is on the first syllable. The "v" is voiced and produced by bringing the lower lip to the upper teeth while forcing air through the vocal cords. The "t" is voiceless with the tongue touching the upper teeth, and the "r" sound is produced by flipping the tongue back in the mouth.
A ventral hernia is a medical condition characterized by the protrusion of tissues or organs through a weak area or defect in the abdominal wall, specifically in the ventral region of the body. The ventral wall refers to the front part of the abdomen, which includes the muscles, fascia (a thin layer of connective tissue), and skin.
In a ventral hernia, when there is a weakening or stretching of the abdominal muscles and fascia, it can result in the formation of a hernia. This weakened area commonly occurs at the site of a previous surgical incision, where the tissue may not have healed adequately or where the surgical scar has become weakened over time. However, it can also develop in individuals who have not undergone any surgical procedures, due to factors such as obesity, pregnancy, excessive weight lifting, or a congenital defect.
The protrusion of abdominal contents, such as fatty tissue or organs like the intestines, through this weakened area creates a visible bulge or lump under the skin. Symptoms of a ventral hernia may include pain, discomfort, or tenderness at the site of the hernia, especially during physical activity or lifting heavy objects. If left untreated, ventral hernias can potentially lead to complications such as bowel obstruction or strangulation, which can be serious and require emergency medical attention.
Treatment for ventral hernias often involves surgical intervention, where the weakened abdominal wall is repaired or reinforced using various techniques, such as the placement of mesh or sutures. Following surgery, patients are typically advised to avoid activities that put excessive strain on the abdominal muscles to prevent the recurrence or development of ventral hernias.
• Escape of a loop of intestine through the abdominal wall at any point other than the normal rings or canals or umbilicus.
• Hernia through any part of the abdominal wall.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "ventral hernia" has its origins in Latin and its etymology can be broken down as follows:
1. Ventral: This term comes from the Latin word "venter", which means "belly" or "abdomen". It is related to the Sanskrit word "udara", meaning "belly" as well. In English, "ventral" refers to the front or anterior side of the body.
2. Hernia: The word "hernia" originates from the Latin term "hernia", meaning "rupture" or "protrusion". It can be traced back to the Greek word "herna", which also denotes "rupture" or "tear".
When combined, "ventral hernia" refers to a hernia that occurs in the front or anterior abdominal wall, where organs or tissues protrude through weakened or damaged areas.