Abdominal wall hernias

An abdominal wall hernia is the abnormal protrusion of an intra-abdominal viscus, or part of a viscus, through a defect in the muscular and fascial layers of the abdominal wall. A prompt and thorough assessment must be carried out in order to differentiate hernias, particularly those containing bowel, from other causes of abdominal swelling. Abdominal wall hernias are one of the commonest types of hernia that a GP will encounter in their daily practice. This article discusses the diagnosis, differential diagnosis and management of commonly presenting abdominal wall hernias.