Divarication of Recti (Loose Abdomen)
Divarication recti or Diastasis recti is a common problem especially after childbirth in females where the tummy bulges out even when you are not fat. Both natural and C-section deliveries affect the abdominal muscles and can cause post pregnancy abdominal separation. Males are no exception for this carrying large bellies.
What is Divarication of Recti
Divarication is the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles, commonly known as the “six-pack” muscles. This condition is often seen in post pregnant women due to the stretching and weakening of the abdominal muscles during pregnancy.
The separation occurs when the connective tissue (linea alba) that runs between the rectus abdominis muscles becomes stretched and weakened to accommodate the growing baby, causing the muscles to move away from each other, this thin and weak linea alba don’t support intestine and intra-abdominal organs. It is a cause of hernia formation too. It leads to poor body image, backache, constipation and urinary problems.
Divarication in women is caused by an interplay of several factors:
- Hormonal changes affecting ligament and muscle elasticity
- Weakness of the deep abdominal (core) muscles
- Stretching of the muscles as the baby grows
- Condition of the abdominal wall pre-pregnancy
- Previous pregnancies
- Genetics
Treatment
It can be corrected by laparoscopic surgery by SCOLA technique, making three keyhole size cuts and placing a mesh to reinforce the weak muscles, requiring hospitalization of 2-3 days only. Now enjoy a flat tummy without loosing a single kilogram of body weight.
Before Surgery
You may receive fluids, antibiotics, and other medications through an IV (intravenous) line. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any medications. An anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist will give you general anesthesia just before your appendectomy. This keeps you pain-free and allows you to sleep during the surgery.
