Stoma Hernia

A Parastomal Hernia (commonly known as a Stoma Hernia) occurs when part of the intestine protrudes through a ‘Stoma’, an opening that has been surgically created in the abdomen so waste can be passed into a bag. The bulge often protrudes further when coughing or undertaking physical activity. A hernia at a Stoma site is one of the most common complications following the surgical creation of a Stoma. At London Hernia our team of dedicated hernia consultants are experts in the treatment of Stoma Hernias.

A Parastomal Hernia (Stoma Hernia) is a weakness or protrusion in the muscle wall of the abdomen at the site of a Stoma which allows the abdominal contents to bulge out. The bulge often protrudes more when coughing or undertaking physical activity.

Why Do Stoma Hernias Occur?

A ‘Stoma’ is a surgically made opening in the stomach, small bowel, or colon that allows a patient to pass waste into a bag. Surgery of this kind is often necessary when patients have gastrointestinal problems that prevent them from having normal bowel movements. A Stoma Hernia is a common complication that follows this procedure. When a Stoma is brought to the surface of the abdomen it passes through the abdominal wall. In turn, this creates a potential area of weakness. Usually, the muscles in the abdominal wall form a snug fit around the opening, however, on occasion the muscles come away from the edges of the Stoma, creating a hernia.

A Stoma Hernia can occur like most hernias through coughing or from being overweight. It can also occur if there is an infection in the wound following Stoma surgery. It can also develop gradually as the area near the Stoma stretches and weakens over time.

Stoma Hernia Symptoms

Changes in Stoma function or bowel habits
Bloating
Pain or discomfort around the Stoma
Pain or discomfort during heavy lifting or coughing
A bulge around the Stoma

Stoma hernia treatment

There are a range of options available to patients depending on their circumstances. Browse the different types of hernia repair we offer at London Hernia and arrange an appointment.

Is no treatment an option?

Many hernias do not hurt so the temptation is to ignore them. However, failing to get medical advice can be damaging and is not recommended. If left the hernia will grow and discomfort and pain, even if negligible to start with, will intensify.

Book Appointment

To ask a question or to book an appointment for a Stoma Hernia you can contact our team on 020 3370 1014 or email us at [email protected].

Hernia Clinic

The Hernia Unit provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of all hernia types and can offer a number of surgery options depending on the individual needs of each patient.

Make an enquiry

If you have any questions relating to treatment options or pricing information, get in touch with us by filling out one of our contact boxes or giving us a call on 020 3370 1014.

Our Appointments Team have a dedicated and caring approach to finding you the earliest appointment possible with the best specialist.

If you are self-paying you don’t need a referral from your GP for a consultation. You can simply refer yourself* and book an appointment.

If you have health insurance (e.g. Bupa, Axa Health, Aviva), you will need to contact your insurer to get authorisation before any treatment, and in most cases you will also require a referral letter from your GP.

If you are not registered with a GP, we have an in-house private GP practice you can use. Alternatively, we can suggest the most appropriate course of action for you to take, given your location and individual circumstances.

*Please note – for investigations such as X-rays and MRIs, a referral will be required. However, we may be able to arrange this for you through our on-site private GP.

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