The Iskandar Complex Hernia Center Publishes Video on SCOLA Repair for Umbilical Hernia with Diastasis Recti

Waxahachie, Texas -

The Iskandar Complex Hernia Center has recently published a video article for other physicians about robotic subcutaneous-only repair (SCOLA) for umbilical hernia with diastasis recti. This is a procedure that is suitable for patients who have small hernias and diastasis who don’t have excess skin that has to be removed. It is basically the same procedure as a tummy tuck but without removing excess skin. In the video, Dr. Mazen Iskandar offers a step-by-step account of the procedure for the benefit of other hernia surgeons. Dr. Iskandar is a world famous complex hernia surgeon and serves as a great resource not only for his patients but also for other surgeons.

An umbilical hernia with diastasis occurs when a part of the intestine is sticking out through the opening in the patient’s abdominal muscles through which the umbilical cord passed through before the patient was born. This is noticeable as an abnormal protrusion or bulge that can be seen or felt at the belly button. The widening or separation of the abdominal muscles is called the diastasis recti. Umbilical hernias are common and may be asymptomatic. However, they will need to be surgically repaired if symptoms occur. Thus, if there is swelling, tenderness, or discoloration around the belly button, is vital to see a doctor as soon as possible.

The procedure is performed by making three small incisions in the lower abdomen. Flaps are created between the muscle and the subcutaneous tissue. Bipolar cautery is used for controlling any perforators. The contents of the hernia are dissected away from the umbilical stalk. Next, the umbilical stalk is disconnected from the fascia and the dissection is done until the upper abdomen. After the dissection, a permanent, non-absorbable suture to plicate the diastasis, taking bites from the left and right muscle. The procedure can be done without a mesh depending on the size of the hernia.

Dr. Iskandar provides a non-judgmental, listen-first approach for every patient to address the patient’s worries, fears, and concerns, including the patient’s hopes and desired results. He employs the da VinciSurgical System to perform robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery. This offers the benefit of minimizing the incision size, which minimizes scarring, reduces infection rates, and improves recovery time. However, open surgery may also be provided if it is the best option for the hernia repair for a particular patient.

Patients will also get the benefit of getting treated by a surgeon who has obtained a lot of training and is one of the top complex hernia surgeons. Dr. Iskandar keeps himself informed about innovative hernia repair techniques, is a Fellow of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, a member of the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons, and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He is frequently asked to take part in research projects and to present his findings to various general surgeons and hernia specialists.

Dr. Mazen Iskandar, MD, FACS, is a surgeon who specializes in the repair of reoccurring or complex hernias. He is a board-certified general surgeon who underwent fellowship training on minimally invasive and bariatric surgery. He has a lot of experience in complex hernia surgery and abdominal wall repair. And he has developed a reputation as one of the top complex hernia experts in the United States. The procedure that he performs can provide relief for many of the symptoms that people with complex hernia suffer from, such as: limited mobility; a reduced quality of life; morbidity; greater degrees of body pain; psychological well-being issues; stress related to health and weight management; missed opportunities; diminished social and physical functioning; related health problems; occupational and career limitations; and lessened sexual activity.

Those who are interested in getting more information about the hernia repair that can be provided by Dr. Iskandar can check out The Iskandar Complex Hernia Center website or contact them on the telephone or through email. They are open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.