Overview

The UNC Health Care Hernia Center

The center is dedicated to providing the best hernia care for a variety of hernia types in adults.

• It is built on the concept of specialization for up-to-date management and treatment of the various hernia conditions.
• It evaluates thoroughly the available hernia publications and communications for the best evidence how to provide care.
• It aims at organized utilization of techniques, materials and resources.
• It embraces innovation in concepts, technology and teaching.
• It critically reviews all facets of hernia care at UNC Health Care. The data is used for continuous quality improvement (CQI) of outcomes and patient satisfaction.

 The Hernia Center specializes in different types of abdominal hernias:

• Inguinal hernias - located in the groin area between your abdomen and thigh.
• Umbilical hernias - located in or around the navel, or umbilicus.
• Incisional hernias - located generally in the abdomen area of any prior surgical incision or scar.
• Femoral hernias - located near the crease of the leg in the abdominal area, generally lower than the more common inguinal hernal.
• Ventral hernias - located anywhere on the abdominal wall; most common is the midline.
• Other hernias include hiatal hernia and paraesophageal hernia.

Long-term follow up is organized through the Hernia Center after care is completed by the surgeons participating in the Hernia Center. Easy access and ongoing support of CQI efforts are core features of the Hernia Center.

Important Phone Numbers:

Hernia Center Line 843-2547
Trauma & Critical Care 966-4389
GI Surgery 966-8436
Plastic Surgery 966-4446
UNC Hospitals 966-4131

Members of the Hernia Center:

Hartwig Bunzendahl, MD, PhD, Director of UNC Hernia Center
Anthony A. Meyer, MD, PhD, Chair, Department of Surgery
Wayne Overby, MD, Gastrointestinal Surgery
Preston B. Rich, MD, Chief, Trauma & Critical Care
C. Scott Hultman, MD, Plastic Surgery
Lynn Damitz, MD, Plastic Surgery
Mark Koruda, MD, Chief, GI Surgery