Homoeopathic management in the conservative care of incisional hernia: A case report

Abstract

In recent years, there has been a well-documented increase in caesarean section rates, which has contributed to a higher incidence of incisional hernias particularly near the umbilicus following upper- segment caesarean incisions. An incisional hernia typically arises from an incompletely healed surgical wound; it manifests as a defect in the abdominal wall at the site of a previous incision, resulting from a breakdown in the continuity of fascial closure. Many people argue that homoeopathy has limited application in surgical conditions. I intend to challenge this assumption by presenting a case where homoeopathic treatment for instance, using Cocculus Indicus based on the patient's physical generals and sphere of action, led to significant improvement, including a measurable reduction in hernia size on ultrasonography. This case highlights the potential role and effectiveness of homoeopathy even in surgical sequelae. Case description: A 42-year-old female presented with a painful, palpable swelling located on the right side of her previous caesarean-section scar in the mid-third of the incision. The discomfort was aggravated by prolonged walking and coughing, and she reported worsening of pain at night. She also experienced progressive abdominal distension, which was more pronounced at night. Physical examination revealed a soft, partially reducible bulge at the surgical site, with an expansile impulse on coughing. Based on clinical findings, she was diagnosed with an incisional hernia. Conclusion: This case shows that homoeopathy can be a helpful, non-surgical way to manage an incisional hernia after a caesarean section. The treatment reduced the hernia size on ultrasound and improved symptoms. While it may not replace surgery in all cases, it can support healing and possibly delay or lessen the need for surgery.