Hernia is a common problem in the general population. With the advent of Laparoscopic surgery, the repair of hernia has evolved and become even more patient friendly.
What is a Hernia?
- A hernia is a gap in the strong tissue that holds muscles in place.
- The hernia results in discomfort, severe pain, or other potentially serious problems that could require emergency surgery.
- Hernia can happen in both men and women.
- You may be born with a hernia (congenital) or may get it later in life.
- A hernia does not go away by itself.
- Surgery is the only way to cure a hernia.
How Do I Know If I Have a Hernia?
- One can usually easily recognize a hernia. It may look like a bulge under the skin. You may experience pain or discomfort when you lift heavy objects, cough, strain during urination or bowel movements.
- A hernia may be detected by your doctor on a routine physical examination also.
- The common areas for hernias are the groin (inguinal), belly button (umbilical), and the site of a previous operation (incisional).
- Severe, continuous pain, and redness are signs that the hernia may be stuck or intestine has lost its blood supply.
- Please remember an obstructed hernia can be life threatening.
Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair-Is it better?
Laparoscopic repair results in a shorter return to work and normal activity for most patients. It is a technique to fix gaps in the abdominal wall using small incisions and a mesh and results in much less pain.
What Preparation is Required?
- Once your surgeon examines you, she/he will tell you all about your hernia, the kind of surgery which will be most beneficial and the potential risks and benefits of the operation.
- The most important factors determining the outcome of the surgery are presence/absence of cough, constipation, urinary problems and weight gain.
- Remember that recurrence of hernia can happen due to multiple factors.
- Preoperative preparation requires detailed medical examination.
- You will need to be empty stomach for at least 6 hours before the surgery. A few essential medications may be taken with a sip of water the morning of surgery.
- It is important to stop smoking before the surgery not only to have a quick recovery but also to prevent recurrence of hernia.
