Abdominal diastasis recti is medically understood as an increase, in the transverse direction, of the ordinary separation between the two rectus muscles that are at the level of the abdominal midline or linea alba.
In other words that are easier to understand, diastasis abdominis occurs when the right and left sides of the rectus abdominis muscles (those that form the much-desired “bar” of chocolate) separate. And when that separation is greater than 2.5-3 centimeters, abnormal or pathological abdominal diastasis occurs.
How does abdominal diastasis appear?
He explains it to us doctor Federico del Castillospecialist of the – CMED.
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“The origin of this pathology occurs when the patient suffers from very high and sustained intra-abdominal pressure over time, as occurs during pregnancy or in people with obesity and, above all, when fat accumulates as intra-abdominal visceral fat.”
That is why women know a lot about this pathology, since one of the causes of this abdominal opening is due to pregnancy. During pregnancy there is a considerable increase in , which causes many women to have diastasis.
But it is not only a pregnancy problem.
Diastasis can also occur as a result of constipation or chronic cough, which cause increased pressure in the abdomen.
And it can also be caused by weight changes or obesity.
How do I know that I have it?
Among the symptoms of abdominal diastasis recti, the specialist highlights:
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digestive discomfort.
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Difficulties retaining urine.
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Appearance of lumps in the abdomen when this area is exercised.
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Abdominal flaccidity.
In addition to the physiological problems that it can generate, Dr. Del Castillo explains that:
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“This swelling is also associated with a distension in the skin that covers the muscles, which is why it also affects personal image and, in some cases, mood.”
Therefore, when symptoms occur, the patient should see a specialist to prescribe the most appropriate treatment in each case.
Because it is also very important to prevent possible consequences, such as hernias, which would be more difficult to manage in the future.
Techniques and treatments to eliminate diastasis
As a general rule, the diastasis of the abdominal recti caused by pregnancy is corrected after delivery. And in fact, more and more women, being aware of this problem, go to specialists in physiotherapy, to begin the practice of hypopressive abdominal gymnastics.
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It is a series of postural exercises designed to reduce pressure in the abdomen and activate the muscles of the abdominal girdle and pelvic floor.
But in some cases hypopressives are not enough and you have to go to surgery.
As pointed out by the Digestive and General Surgery Unit of Hospital Vithas Madrid La Milagrosa – CMED:
“Until recently, abdominal diastasis was considered solely as an aesthetic problem, which is why an abdominoplasty was used,” which is an operation in which excess skin and fat are removed from the middle and lower part. of the abdomen and the musculature of the abdominal wall is reinforced with sutures.
But it was “a very invasive intervention and, furthermore, it did not treat the weakness of the abdominal wall, so that sometimes, when abdominal hernias appeared, the patient had to be operated on again,” explains the doctor.
A minimally invasive surgery to end diastasis
Fortunately, surgical techniques have evolved a lot and currently a less invasive surgery is used: the REPA technique (Endoscopic Pre-Aponeurotic Repair).
This surgery is performed through three minimal incisions below the abdominal line -or lower abdomen- that will not be visible later and cause little pain and discomfort in the postoperative period.
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“This surgery allows a complete anatomical correction of the anterior abdominal muscles and fascias, as well as treatment of all associated hernia pathology.”
In addition, Dr. Del Castillo explains, sometimes excess skin can be treated and the concept of minimal invasion and small incisions can be maintained.
The advantages of this technique are numerous:
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When performed through minimal incisions below the abdominal line, it does not leave scars.
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In addition, the result is immediate, since the person operated on has a flat abdomen again a few hours after leaving the operating room.
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The hospital stay is 24-48 hours.
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The postoperative period is not very painful and uncomfortable.
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The patient can return to his usual routine two weeks after the operation.
Another of the advantages of the REPA technique is that it “reduces the symptoms of other pathologies caused by pregnancy, such as back and urinary pain, and even promotes a stronger pelvic floor,” the specialist.