Coshocton native values high-quality, local surgical care

Matt Colvin enjoys his active lifestyle, including spending time with his family, traveling to Cleveland Browns’ games and taking walks at Coshocton’s Lake Park.

When he became self-conscious about his umbilical hernia, he wanted to talk to a local physician who could help.

Matt called the Genesis Coshocton Medical Center. Following an appointment with David M. Barbara, M.D., a Fellowship-trained and Board-certified General Surgeon, Matt was relieved that his hernia procedure could be taken care of without leaving town.

“Everyone at Genesis was so welcoming and informative,” said Matt. “You can tell that they have careers they love.”

Hernia development

Umbilical hernias are caused by the thin layer of tissue surrounding the navel pushing through the weakened muscle opening near the bellybutton. When the umbilical cord opening closes after birth, sometimes the muscles in the abdomen don’t come together, leaving a small hole.

This opening often closes by the time a child is a few years old. But if it doesn’t close, the possibility of an umbilical hernia increases as we move and stretch our bodies throughout daily life.

Although common in young children, adults can develop umbilical hernias from frequent lifting and tightening of the abdominal muscles.

“Think of umbilical hernias as the result of the body’s way of remodeling,” said Dr. Barbara. “Every person has thinness in the umbilical region. The area is strong, but it gets more fragile over time.”

Timely care

As the superintendent of a local career center and an engaged member of the Coshocton community, it was important for Matt to receive effective and prompt treatment so he could return to his routine as soon as possible.

“I enjoyed meeting Dr. Barbara,” said Matt. “He took time to explain what he would do before, during and after the procedure.”

A small 1 ½ inch circular surgical mesh was used to repair Matt’s hernia.

Requiring only a 4-centimeter incision for placement, the abdominal wall grows into the outer side of the mesh material. The smooth silicone inner side easily bends without attaching to the intestine.

Speedy recovery

Dr. Barbara said the majority of umbilical hernia surgeries like Matt’s are completed as outpatient procedures

“Umbilical hernias are very fixable,” said Dr. Barbara. “Recovery is quick. Patients can return to their regular lives soon after surgery.”

Matt’s recovery included a few days of rest and a follow-up appointment with Dr. Barbara. He highly recommends the Genesis Coshocton Medical Center to his friends and family.

“I feel perfect. Having Genesis in Coshocton and what they have brought to the community has been great.” – Matt Colvin