What is another term for a ventral hernia?

A ventral hernia is commonly referred to as an incisional hernia, particularly when it occurs through a previous surgical incision. This type of hernia appears in the abdominal wall and can result from a weakness or defect that develops at the site of the incision. In essence, any hernia that occurs in the anterior abdominal wall can be identified as a ventral hernia, but the term "incisional" specifies that it is related to a prior surgical intervention.

Understanding this nomenclature is crucial for proper coding and documentation. It ensures that medical professionals communicate effectively about the patient's medical history and the nature of their condition. The other types of hernias mentioned, such as umbilical, hiatal, and inguinal hernias, refer to different anatomical locations and mechanisms of hernia formation and therefore do not accurately substitute for the term "ventral hernia."