Hernia

(herne-ah.) [From Gr. her nos, a protrusion. ] (Surg.) A tumor formed by the displacement of part of the intestines or omentum, which protrudes by a natural or accidental opening from the cavity in which it is contained. When the parts cannot be reduced, or returned into the abdominal cavity, the H. is said to be strangulated; in that case, the pa age through the intestines is interrupted, and, unle the gut can be replaced by an operation, death will soon ensue. As soon as any person perceives that he is affected with a H.,he should have recourse to medical advice, for the disease is then in the state most favorable for treatment. When the H. is reduced, it must be subjected to a constant compre ion, which is effected by means of a tru . [s. 452]