Hernia Surgery

What are the Types of Hernia Surgery?

There are two main types of hernia surgery:

• Open herniorrhaphy: In open herniorrhaphy, the surgeon makes an incision in the groin or abdomen to access the hernia. The surgeon then pushes the organ or tissue back into place and repairs the weakened muscle or tissue. Once the procedure is completed, the surgeon uses stitches or surgical mesh to reinforce the area.
• Laparoscopic herniorrhaphy: This is a minimally invasive procedure. In this procedure, the surgeon makes several small incisions in the abdomen and inserts a laparoscope, a thin tube with a camera on the end. This helps the healthcare provider to view the structures inside the abdomen on a monitor. The surgeon then inserts small instruments through the other incisions to repair the hernia. Once the procedure is completed, the incisions are closed using sutures, or surgical glue.

What Happens During a Hernia Removal Operation?

Hernia surgery is typically performed in three stages, as mentioned below:

Before the surgery:

• You'll likely meet with a doctor to discuss the procedure, and get answers to any questions you have.
• The doctor may conduct a physical examination and certain other tests like imaging and blood tests to confirm the existence and type of hernia.
• You may need to stop taking certain medications or adjust your diet beforehand.

During the surgery:

The exact procedure will depend on whether you're having open or laparoscopic surgery:

Open surgery:

• In open surgery, you'll receive anesthesia (local or general anesthesia) to keep you unconscious and pain-free during the procedure.
• The surgeon makes a single incision in your groin or abdomen region to access the hernia. The bulging tissue or organ is then pushed back into the abdominal cavity.
• Once the protruding tissue is placed in its original position, the weakened abdominal wall is reinforced to prevent hernia recurrence. Often, a surgical mesh is also used to strengthen the area.
• The incision is then closed with stitches or surgical staples.

Laparoscopic surgery (minimally invasive surgery):

• The laparoscopic surgery procedure also begins by administering anesthesia ( general or local anesthesia) to keep you unconscious and pain-free during the procedure.
• The surgeon then makes several tiny incisions near your belly button or abdomen.
• A laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera attached) is inserted through one of the incisions to view the hernia and surrounding structures on a screen. Other surgical instruments are also inserted to repair the hernia.
• Using the laparoscope and surgical instruments, the herniated tissue is gently pushed back into the abdominal cavity. A synthetic mesh is used to place it over the hernia defect to reduce the chances of recurrence.
• Once this is completed, the incisions are then closed with stitches.

After the surgery:

• You'll be monitored in a recovery room until you wake up from anesthesia. Depending on the type of procedure conducted by the surgeon, you may go home the same day or stay overnight in the hospital.
• You'll likely be prescribed pain medication and antibiotics to enhance your recovery period.

What are the Advantages of Herniorrhaphy?

Here are some of the advantages of undergoing herniorrhaphy:

• Addresses the hernia issue
• Reduces discomfort and pain
• Enhances quality of life
• Faster recovery with laparoscopy
• Reduces the risk of recurrence
• Improves cosmesis

How to Prepare for Hernia Operation?

Preparing for your hernia operation involves taking several conscious steps to ensure a successful surgery and easy recovery. Some of the steps to follow include:

Before Surgery:

• Your healthcare provider will provide detailed instructions regarding medications, diet, and activity restrictions before your procedure. Ensure you follow the instructions diligently.
• You might need to stop taking certain medications, like blood thinners, for a specific duration before surgery. Discuss this with your doctor to avoid complications.
• Your healthcare provider may conduct certain tests like MRI, ultrasound, and blood tests to evaluate your health. Be prepared for the tests and ask any questions regarding them with your healthcare team.

Day of Surgery:

• Your healthcare team will provide specific guidelines regarding arrival time, what to wear, and any last-minute preparations. Follow the instructions to ensure a smooth procedure.
• Ensure that you wear comfortable clothes on the day of the procedure. Avoid tight shirts and waistbands that can harm the surgical site.
• Bring important items like insurance papers, identification documents, and personal belongings to the hospital. If you use any assistive devices like crutches, wheelchairs, and walkers, bring them with you.

What are the Recovery Tips to Follow After the Herniorrhaphy?

Here are some general recovery tips to keep in mind after herniorrhaphy:

• Prioritize rest when you feel tired, but don't become completely inactive.
• Avoid abdominal-straining activities such as weightlifting, cycling, jogging, and exercise.
• Steer clear of heavy lifting activities that could strain you.
• Manage pain effectively with prescribed medicines as directed by the doctor.
• Keep up a healthy diet full of fruits, vegetables, and fibre to promote better digestion and stave off constipation.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and support healing.