Hernia Mesh Patch LawsuitEpigastric hernias occur when a bit of fat pushes through a weak spot on the belly. In some cases, mesh patches or plugs are stitched inside the abdomen to keep the hernia from returning after it is repaired.

Do I have a Hernia Mesh Patch Lawsuit? If you or a loved one was diagnosed with surgery complications, contact our law firm immediately for a free case consultation. If you file a lawsuit, you could receive compensation for your injury, medical expenses, and more.

What is an Epigastric Hernia?

Epigastric hernias look like a small lump above the belly button. They develop when fat, fluid, or intestines squeeze through a hole in the tissue between the breastbone and belly-button. They are relatively rare, accounting for only 1-4% of all abdominal hernias.

What Causes Epigastric Hernias?

In children, epigastric hernias are caused by incomplete development of the abdominal wall — especially in babies who are premature or low birth-weight. In adults, epigastric hernias are caused by anything that increases abdominal pressure.

Warning Signs & Symptoms

The most common symptom is a soft lump (1-2 cm) anywhere on the upper-middle part of the abdomen. About 20% of patients have more than one. Most are painless, but they can be uncomfortable or tender. Patients may have bloating or nausea after eating food.

Lump Above Belly Button After Pregnancy?

You may have a post-pregnancy epigastric hernia. Pregnancy can cause hernias when the abdominal wall is stretched to accommodate the growing baby — especially twins, triplets, and other multiples. Hernias during pregnancy are also possible.

Epigastric Hernia Complications

Complications are very rare, but they can be life-threatening. Sudden and sharp pain, redness, nausea, or vomiting are symptoms of a “strangulated” hernia. It happens when the loop of intestines inside the hernia is pinched by the surrounding tissue and loses its blood supply. It requires emergency surgery due to the risk of tissue death (necrosis), bowel obstruction, and death.

Risk-Factors for Hernias

Anyone can develop an epigastric hernia at any age, but they are 2-3X more common in men than women, especially between the ages of 20 and 50 years. The general risk-factors for hernias include anything that increases pressure in the abdomen, such as:

  • Straining
  • Lifting heavy weights
  • Large amount of fluid in the abdomen
  • Pregnancy
  • Obesity or being overweight
  • Chronic constipation
  • Urinary problems due to enlarged prostate
  • Persistent coughing or sneezing

Diagnosis & Tests

Epigastric hernias are very common, but most are never diagnosed because they do not cause symptoms. They are easy to diagnose with a physical exam unless the patient is overweight. If there is any doubt, a CT scan or ultrasound may be necessary.

Treatment and Hernia Mesh

Epigastric hernias rarely close on their own. The only way to fix one is with surgery. The surgery is straightforward for small hernias, but it is essential that the repair is tension-free because epigastric hernias have a 10-20% risk of returning. In some cases, mesh patches or plugs are stitched inside the body to help reinforce the abdominal wall.

Do I have a Hernia Mesh Patch Lawsuit?

The Defective Medical Device Litigation Group at our law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.

Free Hernia Mesh Patch Lawsuit Evaluation: Again, if you or a loved one was diagnosed with a serious side effect, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a lawsuit, and our lawyers can help.


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