Appointments
+(603) 5515 1966
General Line
+(603) 5515 1888
June 24, 2024
A hernia can be a painful and disruptive condition, affecting many aspects of your daily life. However, with advancements in medical science, hernia surgery has become a common and generally safe procedure.
Understanding what a hernia is, the different types of hernias, the surgical options available, and what to expect during the recovery process can help ease anxiety and prepare you for a smoother journey to recovery.
Let’s discuss this today.
A hernia happens when a tissue or an organ pushes through a weak spot in the muscle. They are most common in the abdomen, upper thigh, belly button, and groin. Hernias can be caused by muscle weakness and strain, obesity, heavy lifting, coughing, or straining during bowel movements.
Hernias can be of different types:
This is the most common type of hernia, occurring in the groin area when a part of the intestine juts out through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. It is more prevalent in men than women.
Femoral hernias appear in the upper thigh/outer groin region. They are less common than inguinal hernias and more frequently affect women, especially those who are pregnant or obese.
A part of the intestine pushing through the abdominal wall near the belly button is known as an umbilical hernia. This type is common in infants but can also affect adults, especially those who are overweight or have had multiple pregnancies.
A hiatal hernia occurs when a portion of the stomach juts out through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. This type of hernia is often associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Incisional hernias can occur through a scar if you’ve had abdominal surgery in the past. The intestine or other tissue can push through the weakened area around the surgical scar.
Hernias often present with a noticeable bulge in the affected area, which may disappear when lying down and reappear when coughing or straining. Other common symptoms include:
To diagnose a hernia, your doctor will examine you and may order imaging tests like ultrasound, CT scans, or MRIs to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the hernia.
Surgery is the most commonly recommended treatment option to repair a hernia, especially if it causes pain or other symptoms, or if there’s a risk of complications such as incarceration (where the herniated tissue becomes trapped) or strangulation (where the blood supply to the herniated tissue is cut off).
Different types of surgery may be used depending on the nature and severity of hernia:
In open surgery, the surgeon makes an incision near the hernia site to push the protruding tissue back into place and repair the weakened muscle area. This may involve the use of a synthetic mesh to strengthen the repair and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive technique that involves making several small incisions and using a laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) to guide the repair. The benefits of laparoscopic surgery include less post-operative pain, shorter recovery time, and smaller scars.
Robotic-assisted hernia repair is similar to laparoscopic surgery but is performed using a robotic system that allows for greater precision and control. This method can be particularly useful for complex hernias or in patients with prior abdominal surgeries.
Before hernia surgery, your doctor will evaluate your health, review medications, advise fasting, and recommend diet and lifestyle changes for preparation. On the day of surgery, follow instructions, arrive on time, and bring the necessary documents. Pre-operative procedures include changing into a hospital gown, final assessments, starting an IV line, and meeting with the anaesthesiologist.
The duration of the surgery depends on the type and complexity of the hernia repair, with open surgery taking longer than laparoscopic or robotic procedures. During the surgery, the herniated tissue is repositioned, and the weakened area is repaired and reinforced with a mesh.
After the surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room where medical staff will monitor your vital signs and manage any immediate post-operative pain or discomfort.
Open surgery may require a longer hospital stay of 1-2 days, while laparoscopic/robotic surgery is typically done on an outpatient basis, allowing you to go home the same day.
After surgery, pain is managed using prescribed medication or over-the-counter pain relievers. Keep the wound clean and dry and follow instructions for dressing changes. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities. Start with a light diet and slowly return to a regular diet, high-fibre foods can prevent constipation.
It is important to attend follow-up appointments after surgery to monitor healing and ensure progress. Physical therapy may be suggested to strengthen muscles and aid in recovery.
Hernia surgery is usually safe but potential complications include infection, hernia recurrence, and chronic pain at the surgery site. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, increased pain, or discharge. Recurrence is less common with modern techniques but can happen if post-op guidelines aren’t followed. Chronic pain may also occur and should be discussed with a doctor for proper management.
Healing from a hernia involves understanding the condition, choosing the right surgery method, and committing to recovery. With medical care, lifestyle adjustments, and support, most patients can return to normal activities with minimal discomfort. Follow personalised advice from your healthcare provider for effective healing and improved health.
Sources:
Call Us
Spread the love, follow us on our social media channels