What is Hernia Surgery?
A hernia is the protrusion of an organ or parts of an organ through the structure or muscle that contains the organ. Hernias occur when the tissue lining of the organ becomes weak and unable to contain or withstand the pressure of the protruding organs. Hernias usually don’t get better on their own and it requires medical intervention such as surgery to repair it. Hernias can be harmless but at times it can lead to life-threatening complications. Hernia surgery is a type of surgery where the protruding organ or part of the organ is surgically put back in place.
Associated Anatomy
Abdominal cavity, Chest, or Hips
Where is Hernia Surgery Performed?
Hernia surgery is performed in the abdomen region.
How is Hernia Surgery Performed?
Hernias occur when the tissue lining of the organ becomes weak and unable to contain or withstand the pressure of the protruding organs. Hernias usually don’t get better on their own and require medical intervention such as surgery to repair them. In the case of severe cases, surgery is a must. In many cases, when the hernia is not too problematic, the doctor can ask the patient to wear supportive undergarments such as a corset, binder, or truss which will keep the protruding organ in place. In case of hernia surgery, the doctor will surgically place a mesh that will hold the organ in place and give support to the weak muscles of that region.
What is the Preparation for Hernia Surgery?
- The doctor will check the condition of the hernia and give somebody tests such as blood work and other vital checkups to evaluate the condition of the patient.
- Depending on the type and region of the hernia, the surgeon will choose a method of surgery that will be most suited for the patient’s body.
- The patient will have to fast, at least 5 hours before the surgery.
- After administering anesthesia, the surgeon will get into operating on the hernia.
- Hernia operations generally take around 45 min to 60 minutes and after that surgery, the patient needs to be on complete bed rest for two days.
- The doctor will evaluate the condition of the patient and plan their discharge once the patient is getting better.
- However, there are strict guidelines on body posture and diet so that the operated area does not get any strain.
What Procedure Type is Hernia Surgery?
Both invasive and minimally invasive surgery.
What is the Follow-Up Care for Hernia Surgery?
The patient needs to maintain the restriction of movement and strenuous activities and diet as advised by the doctor. Follow-up checkups and doctor visits are necessary to check the condition of the hernia. Improper care can lead to a relapse of the hernia and increase the complication more than before, thus proper care is extremely vital.
Risks for Hernia Surgery
- A major risk for hernia surgery is the risk of an infection in the wound which can lead to sepsis if not acted on immediately.
- Patients with diabetes have a greater risk as the wound healing process in diabetic patients is comparatively slower which means the wound is exposed for a greater time to infections.
- Blood clots can be formed in the body due to anesthesia.
- Pain is a major risk after hernia surgery and too many painkillers can have other severe side effects.
Recovery from Hernia Surgery
The patient needs to be in a relaxed state and not carry out any activities that stress the body. Exercises, lifting weights, or gym are restricted totally unless told by the doctor otherwise. Diets that ease bowel movement and medicines that reduce constipation are administered to reduce the pressure on the intestines. Recovery from a hernia is easy but a long-term process. Utmost care is needed during this period and any mistreatment can cause a recurrence of the hernia.
