[Anterolateral hernias of the abdomen]

Anterolateral hernias of the abdomen group together umbilical, epigastric, and spigelian hernias and diastasis of the abdominal rectus. In spigelian hernias, 90% are located in the subumbilical region at the Monro line. They are asymptomatic in 90% of cases. The risk of strangulation is 10%-25% and requires surgical treatment. A herniorrhaphy is sufficient if the ring is less than 2 cm in diameter. Beyond 2 cm, open or celioscopic mesh repair is necessary. The risk of recurrence is less than 2%. Umbilical hernias result from progressive enlargement of the umbilical ring. The risk of strangulation is higher than 10%. The morbidity and mortality rate reaches 15% in large strangulated hernias. All umbilical hernias should therefore be treated surgically. If their diameter is under 2 cm, a simple herniorrhaphy can be done; otherwise mesh repair is required. In the cirrhosis patient, hernia treatment is part of the ascites treatment. The indication for surgery depends on liver function. Epigastric hernias are most often symptomatic: 80% have a ring smaller than 25 mm and 20% are multifocal. The risk of strangulation is low. If the ring is less than 20 mm, these hernias can be treated by herniorrhaphy. Recurrence is frequent - more than 10% - and always difficult to treat. Diastasis of the recti does not lead to complication, and treatment is not necessary. Cosmetic surgery can be used to manage diastasis.