What is the term for a hernia through a scar?

What is the term for a hernia through a scar?

• A. Inguinal hernia
• B. Umbilical hernia
• C. Incisional hernia
• D. Hiatal hernia

Answer: (C)

A hernia through a scar is called an incisional hernia because it arises from weakness in the abdominal wall exactly at the site of a previous surgical incision. After abdominal surgery, the fascia at that scar may not heal fully, creating a defect through which bowel or other abdominal contents can protrude. This is distinct from other hernias by location: inguinal hernias occur in the groin area, umbilical hernias at the belly button, and hiatal hernias involve the diaphragm, with part of the stomach moving upward into the chest. Clinically, you often feel a bulge aligned with the scar that may become more prominent with coughing or standing and may require surgical repair, sometimes with mesh, to prevent complications.