tkrik,
Actually I meant to write hernias (3); 1 at pelvic area, 1 near navel and 1 epigastric; (above the navel; below the breastbone. My rectal/colon surgery was done almost 4 years ago; but the surgery to repair the hernias took place this past November.

The hernias caused discomfort (bulging); but not painful. There is possibility hernias may strangulate so surgical repair should be done. If this happens, it is then emergency surgery (or worse).

These hernias occur from straining after having had abdominal incisions due to abdominal surgery. (Thus the name Ventral Incisional Hernia ; Ventral meaning abdominal.) Hernias can occur in the area of ileostomy or colostomy as well.

When possible, straining at area of incisions need to be avoided. As Pam mentioned in her case "if only I had wings".

I'm sure Charlie and doydie are glad to be home and on the mend. doydie has done more walking these past few days.


Gerry