Umbilical Hernia
General Information:
An umbilical hernia is the protrusion of abdominal
contents beneath the skin at the navel (umbilicus). The umbilicus
is the healed scar ("belly button") in the mid-abdominal
area. It marks the opening through which the prenatal blood vessels
and other fetal structures passed before birth. After the umbilical
cord is cut at birth, the opening rapidly closes. Occasionally,
however, it does not close completely, and an opening in the abdominal
wall remains.
The danger of a hernia is the potential entrapment
of intestines through this opening. If the hernia interferes with
the blood supply to the trapped bowel, passage of food through
the bowel is blocked. Also, the strangulated tissue dies and releases
toxins that may kill the animal.
Treatment Information:
We hope that you will find this information helpful in your quest
for better pet care. If you have any questions or comments, please call your
veterinarian's office, or feel free to
e-mail us.
David E. Hammett, DVM
and the Staff of All Creatures Veterinary Clinic, PC
