An umbilical hernia is a medical condition that most frequently affects newborn infants but can also develop in adults. Patients with an umbilical or belly button hernia develop a fleshy mass at the site of the belly button. This mass is a portion of intestine that has pushed through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. Although an umbilical hernia can resolve without medical intervention, certain patients may require surgery to place the protruding hernia back into the abdominal cavity. Patients should be aware of the potential complications after umbilical hernia surgery prior to treatment.
Large Intestine or Bladder Injury
Patients who undergo this surgical procedure can sustain damage to large intestine as a complication, according to MedlinePlus. Bowel injury can lead to stool production problems after surgery, which are typically managed through the use of laxatives. Patients are also at risk of experiencing injury to the bladder, a complication that can result in urinary difficulty or retention after surgery. Typically, large intestine or bladder injuries are detected by a surgeon during umbilical hernia surgery and promptly repaired. If damage is detected after surgery, patients may require additional surgical intervention to address these complications.
Reproductive Organ Damage
Reproductive organ damage can occur as a complication of this surgical procedure, Mount Nittany Medical Center warns. Minor damage to a female's ovaries or uterus or to a man's testicles or penis can typically be surgically repaired without causing additional medical complications. Significant reproductive organ damage is very uncommon but can have lasting consequences on fertility or sexual arousal.
Groin or Leg Numbness
Nerve damage during the procedure can cause numbness complications after umbilical hernia surgery. Affected patients can experience a tingling or numb sensation that spreads into the groin or upper thigh. Such sensations typically diminish as the patient continues to heal from surgery. If leg or groin numbness persists or extends to other regions of the body, affected patients should seek additional care from a medical professional.
Hernia Reappearance
Umbilical hernia surgery may not completely resolve hernia symptoms in all patients. Surgical incisions within the abdomen can weaken the abdominal wall, making the patient more susceptible to developing another hernia after surgery. Recurrent hernia symptoms may require additional surgical intervention to resolve.
Blood Clots, Bleeding or Infection
Patients who undergo umbilical hernia surgery are at risk of developing blood clot, bleeding or infection complications, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports. Blood clots or bleeding problems after surgery require prompt medical attention to avoid life-threatening medical complications. An infection at the surgical site typically requires antibiotic treatment to resolve infection symptoms, such as increased pain, swelling or inflammation.
