“This muscle injury is very common in women who have given birth to large babies, or have had multiple pregnancies, in obese people, middle-aged (over 35 years), or in those who perform constant physical effort,” says Dr. Royer Madariaga, general and laparoscopic surgeon, specialist in abdominal wall surgery of our institution, who gives us more information on this subject.

What is Diastasis recti?

Rectus diastasis is a midline defect of the abdominal wall, characterized by a separation of approximately 2.5 to 3 centimeters of the rectus abdominis muscles.

Why is it important to correct rectus diastasis?

• Although it used to be considered a merely aesthetic problem, there is now scientific evidence that associates diastasis recti with the lack of adequate dynamism of the abdominal wall, causing gastrointestinal disorders such as constipation, poor digestion, pelvic floor alterations, skin distension, and other conditions that impact the quality of life of those who present this lesion.
• This condition can cause a midline abdominal lump that increases in size with physical exertion, abdominal weakness, urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, difficulty performing daily activities when the separation exceeds 8 centimeters, postural problems, and lumbar and thoracic pain associated with lumbopelvic instability and pelviperineal weakness.

How is diastasis recti treated?

• Treatment can be conservative with hypopressive abdominal gymnastics, or surgical, using techniques such as incisional, laparoscopic, and endoscopic.
• The REPA/SCOLA technique (Endoscopic Pre-Aponeurotic Restoration) allows adequate approximation of the rectus abdominis muscles and reconstruction of the linea alba without the need to enter the abdominal cavity.

What benefits do patients obtain after the REPA/SCOLA technique?

This procedure, which lasts approximately one hour, facilitates a complete anatomical correction of the rectus abdominis muscles and the reconstruction of the linea alba, providing excellent aesthetic results. In addition, patients can resume their daily activities the following day, although the use of a girdle is recommended during the first month for optimal skin recovery.

Dr. Royer Madariaga
General and Laparoscopic Surgeon, Specialist in Abdominal wall Aurgery at Clínica Ricardo Palma