My Husband Tore His Rectus Abdominis Muscle 8 Weeks Ago. Is Surgery the Solution?

Question

He has been in pain since he tore the muscle. He just started physical therapy two weeks ago but hasn't seemed to help but feels worse after treatment. Is surgery the answer? If so what type of doctor should he see for this.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. I hope your husband is feeling better. The answer to your question depends on exactly where and what kind of tear it was to his muscle. It is important first and foremost that he be seen by his primary care physician to check for more serious things such as a traumatic hernia. If he does have a hernia associated with his rectus abdominis tear, then it is very unlikely that it will get any better without sugery. To be sure you have an accurate assessment of what is going on, schedule appointments with two or more board-certified plastic surgeons in your area for a full and complete evaluation to make sure your husband is a good candidate and that it is safe for him to have surgery. I hope this helps.

Sugene Kim, MD, FACS · Answer

Rectus muscle can tear due to vigorous workout, sudden movement, or spontaneously. However, it is a rare. Torn rectus muscle manifests as bleeding, swelling, and pain. It is important to verify that he indeed has a torn rectus muscle; often times, it is diagnosed on CT scan. Although bleeding from rectus muscle can stop by itself, he will need to be followed up by a primary care physician or general surgeon to make sure. If he has a large amount of bleeding (with increasing pain and hematoma), it may be necessary to drain the blood or drop the bleeding. He should not be doing physical therapy until he is cleared by PMD/general surgeon to make sure that there is no more bleeding.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.

	I am sorry to hear about your husband. He should be seen by his primary care and/or general surgeon.  Hernia needs to be ruled out. Imaging may be helpful for diagnosis purposes.  Surgery may be the answer depending on the diagnosis.

	Best Wishes.

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