Abdominal wall fracture: first signs, symptoms and treatment

The first signs of an abdominal wall rupture appear only veiled, which is why many people initially do not notice the clinical picture. Unspecific symptoms such as abdominal pain and a feeling of pressure can first suggest a classic gastrointestinal disease. In many cases, the abdominal wall fracture is only recognized when the symptoms are advanced stage increase. Below we explain how the first signs of an abdominal wall fracture can be correctly interpreted, how the clinical picture develops and which treatment options are available.

Development of an abdominal wall fracture

The abdominal wall or abdominal wall is a very complex and flexible part of the body. It consists of different layers, such as the epidermis and subcutis layer, the abdominal muscle and the peritoneum. Muscles and muscle skins make it possible, that the stomach can move, for example to widen when breathing or pressing. In addition, they protect the internal organs from external influences and ensure stability in the abdomen.

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An abdominal wall rupture occurs when a weak point in tissue arises. This can be a congenital disorder or the weakness can be attributed to an injury.

If a person has a weak spot in the abdominal wall and exerts pressure on it, for example when lifting or pressing, organs and abdominal fat can get out of the abdominal cavity through a small hole and turn outwards.

The abdominal wall fracture is also called the abdominal wall hernia.

Causes of an abdominal hernia

There are several causes of an abdominal wall fracture. In principle, the clinical picture can occur in people of all ages and genders. In men, for example, a hernia can be observed more often because the abdominal wall around the groin is weak from birth. In turn, women are at very high risk during pregnancy. The increased internal pressure also affects the already tensioned tissue and thereby supports the development of a hernia. Other causes of an abdominal wall fracture include:

  • Weakened connective tissue

A weakness in the connective tissue is usually noticeable on the abdomen through the so-called stretch marks. What is considered unaesthetic for women and is often treated in the field of body contouring can also favor a Bach wall hernia. The abdominal wall has no solid hold due to the weakened connective tissue and is more susceptible to pressure.

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  • Mechanical actions

Stab wounds damage the abdominal wall structure. Injuries from surgical cutlery during surgery, for example if the umbilical cord is cut incorrectly, can also cause an abdominal wall hernia. There is a very high risk in the area of ​​scars that arise after surgery. This weak point can lead to a scar fracture.

  • developmental disorders

Natural developmental processes can promote an abdominal wall fracture. Sometimes there may be a weakness in the connective tissue from birth, which repeatedly causes hernias. An umbilical hernia, which is considered to be the form of the abdominal wall hernia, can also result from an abnormal development of the organs.

  • pressure load

The importance of correct lifting and carrying is repeatedly demonstrated. An incorrect load can cause herniated discs, severe back problems and, last but not least, an abdominal wall rupture. Because when lifting heavy loads, there is enormous pressure on the abdominal wall.

However, pressure loads not only arise externally, they can also develop from the inside. Obesity, swelling organs or the development of a child in the mother’s belly span the abdominal wall, which can result in an abdominal wall rupture.

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Symptoms and first signs of an abdominal wall fracture

The first signs of a tummy tuck are hardly taken seriously by those affected. You suffer from abdominal pain and feel a feeling of pressure, which can be interpreted as a digestive problem. Only in the further course do additional symptoms appear that indicate an abdominal wall hernia:

  • Pain while moving
  • Visible skin bulge
  • Palpable hole in the tissue
  • Malaise and nausea
  • Disruption of various organ functions

Treatment and aftercare

Surgical intervention is required to treat an abdominal wall fracture. Depending on the location of the body and the severity, however, different therapy options can be used:

Sew the fracture to body tissue

If the fracture has not damaged the abdominal wall too much, doctors sew it up with the body’s own tissue. To do this, parts of the abdominal wall structure and muscles are fixed in front of the fracture portal in order to close them. This method is intended to strengthen the abdominal wall and protect it from further hernias.

Sew the break with artificial materials

Instead of the body’s own tissue, the physician can use a plastic net or a truss to sew up the gate. The plastic net is fixed in front of the affected area and prevents further organ leakage. It can remain in the body and thus permanently increases the stability of the abdominal wall. A hernia initially relieves the abdominal wall fracture and fixes the organs internally, but is not a permanent solution. It is placed around the patient’s abdomen, similar to a corset, to support the tissue.

After an abdominal wall fracture

After the operation, the patient has to be careful. Otherwise there is a risk that the wounds will tear open again with physical exertion. Basically, scars that arise during the operation represent a further risk of an abdominal wall fracture, which is why hernia occurs again in many cases.

In order to prevent the further occurrence of a fracture of the abdominal wall, pressure loads should be avoided as far as possible. Obesity and constipation can also contribute to a hernia. For this reason, it is very important for those affected and for people at increased risk to pay attention to their diet.

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Christina Cherry
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