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A hernia can be a painful and even debilitating condition.
And when it becomes unbearably painful, or even dangerous through tissue strangulation, hernia surgery is inevitable. But what do you need to know about this operation?
Keep reading to learn about the ten important things you should understand about hernia surgery.
1. There Are Different Kinds of Hernias
The types of hernias that require hernia surgery can either be present from birth or develop later in life.
The most common type of hernia is an inguinal hernia. It involves the protrusion of the intestines through the abdominal muscles and into the groin area.
Congenital inguinal hernias, which are present from birth, resulting from the incomplete closure of the inguinal canal. Direct inguinal hernias, which happen later in life, usually result from the weakening of the lower abdominal muscles.
2. Hernias Can Be Surgically Repaired
Now, the good news is that these hernias can be fixed through inguinal hernia surgery and hernia mesh surgery.
The essential condition of a hernia is that it represents the protrusion of an organ or tissue system through a weakness in a surrounding muscle or tissue wall. With an inguinal hernia, as we’ve seen, this involves an expansion into the groin area.
Other hernias affect other areas. Hiatal hernias, for instance, involve the displacement of the stomach into the chest; a femoral hernia usually involves the inner thigh region.
In any case, hernia surgery replaces the prolapsed organ to its rightful place, and fixes weakened muscle and tissue to keep it there.
3. Hernia Surgery Is for Large and Serious Issues
Hernia surgery cost, to say nothing of hernia surgery recovery, can be major factor that deter patients from undergoing this kind of surgery.
Fortunately, hernia repair is only required for large and painful hernias. Many hernias may not require immediate repair or surgery at all. A simple doctor’s checkup may be all that’s needed, to keep an eye on the problem.
A hernia requires surgical repair when it is causing pain, or becomes trapped or “incarcerated” outside the abdomen. Tissue strangulation can occur, leading to tissue death, in which case urgent surgical repair is required.
4. An Experienced Surgeon Can Fix a Hernia
A general surgeon has the capability to perform hernia surgery and fix the problem.
The surgery will often occur in a hospital or an outpatient surgery clinic and is a relatively uncomplicated procedure. Check out surgcomd.com to find a world-class, patient-focused general surgeon who can perform hernia surgery.
5. Invasive or Less Invasive Surgery
A hernia repair operation is a serious undertaking. That said, there is the possibility for a procedure that is less invasive.
Hernia surgery involves the administration of a local or general anesthetic, followed by open surgery (a large cut) or less invasive surgery (several lesser cuts). Then, the surgeon crams the protruding organ back into its place, strengthens the weakened muscles with a mesh or stitches, and sews you right up.
6. You’ll Have to Undergo Some Preparatory Tests
As with any major surgery, you’ll have to undergo some testing and surgical preparations.
The number and kinds of testing will depend on your specific situation. It may involve an EKG, chest X-rays, or even a battery of blood tests. There will also be a series of preoperative instructions, usually detailing which medications to take or avoid, and when to stop eating or drinking prior to the operation.
This is also a good time to inform your surgeon of which medications you take, and any allergies you may have.
7. There Are Risks to Consider
Hernia repair is a surgical procedure, and that means there are certain risks that are involved.
For instance, these risks can include blood clotting, infection, and bleeding. Other potential side-effects involve recurring pain, the recurrence of the hernia itself, and even possible organ damage.
These are the natural risks that come with any surgical operation. Talk to your doctor about these risks, and ask about what steps can be taken to reduce or minimize them.
8. Preoperative Prep
Before the surgery, there are some preparatory steps to take.
These are the typical procedures that precede any surgical operation. For example, you’ll have to sign a surgical consent form. You’ll also have to remove your clothing and any jewelry, and don the infamous hospital gown.
Prior to the operation, your surgical team will speak with you about your medical history. Finally, you’ll be hooked up to an IV and the anesthesiologist will administer anesthesia.
9. Hernia Surgery Recovery
The typical hernia surgery recovery time is about two to six weeks.
It’s a gradual process, and depending on your post-surgical condition, you’ll either leave the same day as the surgery or stay in the hospital for a period of observation. There may be some residual pain during the healing process, and this is something to keep an eye on.
If the pain continues for an inordinate period of time, or worsens, or is accompanied by bleeding or redness around the wound, it’s important to contact your doctor.
10. Look Forward to an Active Post-Hernia Life
After hernia surgery, most people can return to a pain- and hernia-free life.
Your doctor will prescribe a treatment plan to keep the hernia from reappearing. This regimen usually includes measures to prevent weight gain, constipation, and special exercises. These exercises are designed to shield the hernia from excessive strain that might lead to a relapse.
Know What to Expect From Hernia Surgery
Hernia surgery is a relatively common and uncomplicated surgical procedure. Knowing what to expect and prepare for makes the anticipation a little less daunting.
If you found this article informative, please check out our site for more great health news and advice.
