Management Strategies for Diastasis Recti

Diastasis recti is a relatively common condition in which there is a midline abdominal bulge that can affect a variety of individuals. The etiology and diagnosis is well understood and optimal management depends on the degree of severity. Patients at high risk for diastasis recti include multiparous women, obese patients, and those with multiple previous operations. Diagnosis includes clinical examination and assessment of symptoms. Physical characteristics include a midline abdominal bulge without a fascial defect. Classification systems are based on the degree of separation between the paired midline rectus and myofascial deformity. Optimal management varies and includes simple plication of the midline defect, extensive plication of the anterior abdominal wall, and sometimes the use of resorbable or nonresorbable mesh.