General Surgery Practice

Hernias are enlarged natural openings  in the body or separations of muscle, that allow underlying tissue to protrude through them. An example of a natural opening hernia is the hiatal hernia that allows the stomach to protrude into the chest cavity. Separations of muscle can occur in previous incisions. Abdominal incisions are the most common for this problem, and can allow portions of the small and large bowel to herniate through the separation.

The most common hernia is the inguinal hernia, and it occurs most often in men. It presents as a small swelling in the groin that will go away when the person lays down. Symptoms vary from mild to discomfort to sharp pain.

Incarcerated and strangulated hernias are complications that can occur. Incarcerated hernias trap tissue in the hernia so that it can’t be reduced. If the tissue is trapped tightly so that it’s blood supply is cut off, the incarcerated hernia becomes strangulated and requires immediate surgery.

The most common ways to repair hernias use biologic or prosthetic mesh, myofascial flaps, and primary suture repairs. The age and size of the patient, size and location of the hernia, previous surgery, other medical problems, and the lifestyle of the patient are factors in deciding what type of repair is best.

In my practice, I frequently see patients with large or recurrent hernias of the abdominal wall. These repairs are complex, and frequently require an advanced technique known as myofascial trunk flaps. In this repair the general and plastic surgeon combine their skills to close the hernia, and return the abdominal muscles to their normal position.

To Schedule an Appointment Call Dr. Ripley: 928-668-5506
At Wickenburg Community Hospital, diagnosing and treating the needs of our growing communities is our priority.  Please contact us with any medical or surgical questions or concerns (whether listed below or not). We will work with you to understand your insurance coverage and financial responsibility, as well as pre-operative instructions, recovery, and discharge.

Primary Care

Community Hospital Clinics are located in Wickenburg, Wittmann, and Congress. We sincerely follow our mission to provide quality health and wellness services where the patient, family, and community come first.

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Emergency Care

Our 8 bed Emergency Room department is fully staffed with emergency physicians, nurses, and ER specialists. Your wait time is typically measured in minutes not hours as in the larger metropolitan hospitals.

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Surgical Services

Wickenburg Community Hospital provides a wide variety of surgical care and treatment. We serve a vibrant and active community who favors quality health care close to home.

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