Dr Harsh Shah
MS, MCh (Surgical Gastroenterology), DrNB (Surgical Gastroenterology)
Registered with Gujarat Medical Council, Reg. No. G-38738
Hernia Surgeon · Dr. Jivraj Mehta Hospital, Vasna, Ahmedabad
In short
- Yes. A hernia can form in an appendix scar, usually in the lower right belly. It is not common, and it can be repaired.
- A lump near the appendix scar may also be a groin hernia lying close by. An examination, and sometimes a scan, tells them apart.
- The chance is higher if the appendix had burst or the wound became infected, because the scar then heals with weaker tissue.
Many adults had their appendix removed years ago. Most never have a problem with the scar. A few notice a bulge near it later, sometimes many years later.
This page explains why, how the bulge is checked and what can be done.
Why a hernia forms at the appendix scar
An open appendix operation is done through a cut in the lower right belly. The muscle layers are separated and then closed. The scar that forms is weaker than the muscle.
The chance of a hernia is higher if the appendix had burst, if the wound became infected, or if you later gained weight or strained a lot.
After keyhole appendix surgery
Keyhole surgery uses a few small cuts. A hernia is less common, but it can form at one of them. It is called a port-site hernia and often appears at the belly button.
A lump near an appendix scar: what it may be
A lump near an appendix scar: what it may be
| Lump | Where it usually is | How it behaves |
|---|---|---|
| Appendix scar hernia | In or just beside the scar | Bigger on coughing or standing |
| Groin hernia | Lower, in the groin crease | Bigger on standing; may reach the scrotum |
| Port-site hernia | At a small keyhole cut, often the belly button | Bulges on coughing |
| Lump in the skin or fat | Under the skin, near the scar | Does not change on coughing |
Noticed a bulge near an old appendix scar? A review can show what it is.
How it is checked
Your surgeon examines you lying down and standing, and asks you to cough. A groin hernia sits lower than an appendix scar hernia, but the two areas are close.
An ultrasound or CT scan may be used if the lump is small, deep or unclear.
How it is repaired
An appendix scar hernia is repaired like other scar hernias. The bulging tissue is returned, the gap is closed and the area is usually reinforced with a mesh.
Open and keyhole repair are both used. Your surgeon will explain which suits you after the examination.
Frequently asked questions
Is a lump near my appendix scar a hernia?
It may be. It could also be a groin hernia nearby, or a lump in the skin. An examination and sometimes a scan tell them apart.
Why did I get a hernia after my appendix operation?
The scar is weaker than muscle. Infection in the wound, a burst appendix, weight gain and straining raise the chance.
Can a hernia form after keyhole appendix surgery?
Yes, but it is less common. It usually appears at one of the small cuts, often at the belly button.
Does an appendix scar hernia need repair?
A hernia that aches, grows or bothers you is usually repaired. A small one may sometimes be watched.
Does an old appendix scar change a groin hernia repair?
It can. The surgeon looks at the old scar when choosing between open and keyhole repair.
Related pages
The main page on this site is hernia surgery in Ahmedabad. These cover the neighbouring questions.
Where to find us
Dr Harsh Shah, MS, MCh (Surgical Gastroenterology), DrNB (Surgical Gastroenterology)
Dr. Jivraj Mehta Hospital, Vasna, Ahmedabad
Bring your reports. Second opinions are welcome.