VENTRAL AND INCISIONAL HERNIAS BASIC INFORMATION A ventral hernia occurs when abdominal tissue, fat, intestine, or other structures protrude through a weakened area or defect in the abdominal wall. Some ventral hernias develop spontaneously, while others appear at the site of a previous surgical incision. These are known as incisional hernias . Treatment depends on the size and location of the hernia, the symptoms it causes, previous abdominal operations, the patient's general health, and the risk of complications. When surgery is indicated, repair may be performed through an open or minimally invasive approach , including laparoscopic techniques. The objective is not simply to close the opening but to restore the strength and function of the abdominal wall as safely as possible. WHAT IS A VENTRAL HERNIA? The abdominal wall is formed by several layers of muscle, fascia and connective tissue that contain and support the abdominal organs. When one of these layers becomes weak or dev...