Published on 22/03/2015 by admin
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Last modified 22/03/2015
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Chapter 364 Epigastric Hernia
John J. Aiken, Keith T. Oldham
Epigastric hernias are ventral hernias in the midline of the abdominal wall between the xyphoid and the umbilicus. Epigastric hernias result from defects in the decussating fibers of the linea alba and are more likely congenital than acquired. Most epigastric hernias are small and asymptomatic; therefore, the true incidence is unknown, but the reported incidence in childhood varies from <1% to as high as 5%. Epigastric hernias may be single or multiple and are 2-3 times more common in males than females. The defect typically contains only preperitoneal fat without a peritoneal sac or abdominal viscera. Epigastric (incisional) hernias can occur in a previous incision site or be associated with ventricular-peritoneal shunts.
Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics Expert Consult
