A hernia is basically a bulge caused by tissue that pushes through the stomach muscle that’s enclosing it. Most of the hernias are of the abdominal type. What this means is that they occur in the belly and groin areas. You may be having a hernia if you sense a soft lump in your belly or groin. The lump may disappear when you it or lie down. It may be painful, especially when you cough, bend over, or lift something weighty.
What are the types of hernias ?
The main types of hernia are inguinal, umbilical and epigastric hernias. The other types of hernias are femoral hernia and incisional hernia.
What is an inguinal hernia and how is it different from the other types of hernias ?
An inguinal hernia (of the groin) is a swelling or bulge that is seen in either the abdomen (tummy or intestine), or in the groin. The intention of an inguinal hernia repair surgery is to press the contents of the hernia back into their original place and reinforce the abdominal wall.
An umbilical hernia occurs when either the intestine, fat, or fluid pushes through a weakened place in the belly. This causes a bulge near the belly button or the navel.
The third type, the epigastric hernia occurs when fat pushes out through the weakened belly wall. It occurs in the upper midline of the belly. Mostly, these hernias are small and also multiple sometimes.
What is the preparation needed for hernia repair surgery ?
Your surgeon will clarify and explain how you should prepare for your operation. If you’re having a general anesthetic, you will be unconscious and you will have to follow the necessary fasting instructions. Local anesthesia, on the other hand, completely blocks pain from the area and you will be staying awake during the operation.
How is hernia repair surgery done ?
Hernia repair is usually done either under spinal or general anesthesia. The operation typically lasts for 30 and 50 minutes based on the type of surgery you have. A single dose of intravenous antibiotics is given prior to surgery to lessen the risk of infection of the mesh. There are two chief types of hernia repair – either keyhole (laparoscopic) or open surgery. Your surgeon will advise the type that is most suitable for you.
What is the difference between open hernia repair surgery and laparoscopic hernia repair surgery ?
- Open hernia repair surgery : Open hernia repair surgery is usually done in cases where surgical access is difficult or if internal scarring from a prior surgery is seen. Traditionally, open repairs are done by open surgery, which requires a wide incision in the inguinal region. This procedure can be quite painful, involve heavy medications, maybe a risk of infection and significant blood loss. And even after surgery, a long recovery (often upto 6 weeks) is necessary.
- Laparoscopic hernia repair surgery : While open hernia repair surgery is a safe procedure, it may not be appropriate or necessary for all individuals or conditions. If it is done via multiple smaller incisions, it is called laparoscopic surgery.
What post-operative care do you have to take after the hernia repair surgery ?
A lot of post-operative care has to be taken for two weeks after surgery. Avoid heavy physical activities and exertion for atleast six weeks. Smoking is best stopped as it interferes with healing. Your treatment plan after surgery will be decided by your doctor upon consultation with you. It is imperative to keep the wound clean and dry. Constipation is to be avoided, as the strain put on wound while passing stools is significant. It is for this reason that stool softeners are prescribed.
What are the risks of hernia repair surgery ?
Problems related to the procedure might be bleeding, infection, or rarely, perforation of vital structures (more so in laparoscopic repair). Even problems caused by anesthesia also can occur. Both complications are rare.
How to find and reach general surgeons for inguinal hernia repair surgery ?
Now you can find and reach hernia repair surgeons from different hospitals and destinations on a single platform, Hinfoways. You can avail opinions and information from multiple hernia repair surgeons, cost estimates for hernia repair surgery from different hospitals, compare things and then choose a hernia repair surgeon or a hospital for inguinal hernia repair surgery.
Find, reach and choose a hernia repair surgeon or a hospital for inguinal hernia repair surgery on Hinfoways. Make an informed choice.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
