Epigastric hernia 4302682 89184572 2006-11-21T07:00:47Z ClaudineChionh 221 wikify hernia An '''epigastric''' hernia is a [[hernia]] in the epigastric region of a human. It commonly is found in neonates (babies). Typically there is a small defect of the [[linea alba]] between the [[rectus abdominis]] muscles. This allows tissue from inside the abdomen to herniate anteriorly. The appearance is of a 'bubble' under the skin of the baby's belly between the umbilicus and xiphisternum. The 'bubble' can be 'reduced' (pushed back in), and will reappear if the baby coughs or strains. It can be surgically corrected, although the operation is done almost entirely for cosmetic reasons. In general, any cosmetic operation that is proposed on a baby will be delayed until the baby is older, and better able to tolerate anaesthesia. Epigastric hernias almost never strangulate. Compare [[inguinal hernia]]. [[Category:Hernias]]