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Component separation hernia repair

Published Dec. 15, 2016
• Reviewed by a UI Health Care Provider
on Dec. 1, 2016

Abdominal wall hernias and component separation repair

Hernias develop in many different ways. In an abdominal hernia, an organ or fatty tissue pushes through a separation between the abdominal muscles.

Surgery is the only definitive treatment for abdominal wall hernias. One of the key components of fixing an abdominal hernia is to be able to get the muscles sewn back together. This helps restore the function of the abdominal wall.  Depending on the hernia's size and complexity, however, it may require special techniques including advanced component separation.

Depending on the particular hernia, several component separation techniques are available:

  • Anterior component separation
  • Posterior component separation
  • Transversus abdominis release

In a component separation, parts of the abdominal wall are cut. This allows for the movement of separate muscle sections. These sections are then joined in the middle of the hernia repair, where they are sutured together completing the hernia repair and restoring the abdominal muscles. A mesh may be included to help reinforce the hernia repair, as well.

At the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics Hernia Center, we have a dedicated team of surgeons working together to ensure you receive the right treatment and care for a successful outcome.