Epigastric Hernia – The Small Midline Swelling That Many People Ignore
When a Tiny Lump Above the Navel Can Cause Persistent Pain
Most people are aware of inguinal hernia (groin swelling), but very few know about Epigastric Hernia — a small but sometimes painful swelling that appears in the upper midline of the abdomen, between the chest and the navel.
Because it is small and slow-growing, many patients ignore it for months or even years — until pain increases.
At Aayush Multispeciality Hospital, advanced diagnosis and minimally invasive hernia repair are performed under the expertise of Dr. Ankur Bhanushali, a well-known specialist in laparoscopic and complex hernia surgery in Thane.
What Is an Epigastric Hernia?
An epigastric hernia occurs when:
- Fat or a small portion of tissue pushes through a weakness
- The weakness is located in the upper abdominal midline
- The swelling appears between the breastbone and the navel
It usually contains preperitoneal fat rather than intestine, but pain can still be significant.
Why Does It Develop?
Common causes include:
- Natural weakness in abdominal wall
- Obesity
- Repeated coughing
- Heavy lifting
- Pregnancy
- Straining during bowel movements
- Previous abdominal surgery
Some people are born with a small defect that gradually enlarges.
Symptoms of Epigastric Hernia
Patients may notice:
✔ Small round swelling in upper abdomen
✔ Pain on pressing the lump
✔ Discomfort after meals
✔ Burning sensation in upper abdomen
✔ Pain while coughing or straining
Unlike umbilical hernia, the swelling is slightly above the navel.
Sometimes the lump is visible only while standing.
Why Should It Not Be Ignored?
Even though small, epigastric hernias can:
- Increase in size
- Become painful
- Trap fat tissue (incarceration)
- Rarely trap intestine
- Require emergency surgery if strangulated
Early elective repair is always safer than emergency correction.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually clinical and may be supported by:
- Physical examination
- Ultrasound abdomen
- CT scan (if needed)
Expert examination is important because small hernias are sometimes confused with lipomas (fatty lumps).
Advanced Treatment Options
1️⃣ Open Hernia Repair
Suitable for very small defects.
2️⃣ Laparoscopic Hernia Repair (Preferred in Many Cases)
At Aayush Multispeciality Hospital:
✔ Small keyhole incisions
✔ Mesh reinforcement for strength
✔ Minimal pain
✔ Faster recovery
✔ Lower recurrence rate
Why Mesh Reinforcement Is Important
Simply stitching the defect may lead to recurrence.
Mesh placement:
- Strengthens abdominal wall
- Reduces tension
- Provides long-term durability
- Lowers recurrence risk
Proper mesh placement requires surgical precision and expertise.
Why Choose an Experienced Laparoscopic Surgeon?
Epigastric hernia repair requires:
- Accurate defect identification
- Proper closure technique
- Appropriate mesh selection
- Gentle tissue handling
Dr. Ankur Bhanushali, a highly experienced General and Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon in Thane, specializes in:
- All types of abdominal wall hernias
- Laparoscopic mesh repair
- Recurrent hernia correction
- Minimally invasive surgical techniques
His expertise ensures safe surgery with excellent cosmetic and long-term outcomes.
Who Should Seek Consultation?
You should consult immediately if:
- You notice a swelling above your navel
- The lump is painful
- The swelling increases in size
- You feel discomfort while lifting weight
- Pain interferes with daily activities
Early consultation prevents complications and reduces surgical risks.
Advanced Hernia Treatment in Thane
Do not ignore small abdominal swellings. Early evaluation ensures simple and safe correction.
Consult for expert surgical care at:
Aayush Multispeciality Hospital – Full Address
📍 1st Floor, Marigold Apartment
Almeda Road, Panch Pakhdi
Thane West – 400602
Maharashtra, India
📞 +91 86910 33033
🌐 https://drankurbhanushali.com
📍 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3Msc7YZqVkV9mQMQ7
Dr. Ankur Surgical Clinic – Full Address
📍 Shop No. 4, Laxmi Krupa Building
Edulji Road, Charai
Thane West – 400602
Maharashtra, India
📞 +91 86910 33066
🌐 https://bestsurgeoninthane.com
📍 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XmmGNbgFyhGcqfvV6
For safe, advanced, and minimally invasive hernia surgery, trust Dr. Ankur Bhanushali, one of Thane’s most respected experts in laparoscopic and abdominal wall surgery.
Book your consultation today for accurate diagnosis and long-term relief.
