admins Did you know?
In India, approximately two million people undergo hernia surgery every year.
However, is not a major surgical procedure, but merely thinking about it can leave you feeling anxious.
But what exactly is a hernia? How can it put your whole life into splits if ignored and when you need to go for hernia surgery?
Usually, muscles hold all your organs in place. However, sometimes, these muscles break down, and one of these organs protrudes through the wall of your muscles. This is known as a hernia.
The condition of a hernia usually occurs in your abdominal wall when the intestine pushes through a weak spot in the wall. This condition is not dangerous or fatal as some people may have a hernia for years without knowing about it.
You can notice a bulge or a lump or a certain kind of discomfort when you have a hernia. Your doctor may confirm it through a physical exam or imaging. The symptoms may be treated with medications.
However, if the problem worsens, hernia surgery becomes the only resort. In this surgery, displaced tissues are placed back to their original position or mesh over the weak region of the muscles.
The three most common types of hernia surgeries performed are:
Open hernia surgery
In open hernia surgery, an incision or cut is made in your groin. In this surgery, a hernia “sac” containing the bulging intestine is identified. After that, your surgeon pushes the hernia back into the abdomen. After that, your surgeon strengthens the abdominal wall with stitches or synthetic mesh.
In this surgery, most patients can go home a few hours after surgery. In most of the cases, you start feeling fine within a few days. However, strenuous activity and exercise are restricted for four to six weeks after the surgery.
Laparoscopic hernia surgery
Laparoscopic surgery, also known as minimally invasive hernia repair surgery, involves small incisions.
This surgery uses a laparoscope, a thin, telescope-like instrument that is inserted through a small incision at the belly button. A surgeon usually performs this procedure under general anesthesia.
Moreover, before the surgery, a surgeon may evaluate your general state of health. It can include your medical history, physical exam (and possibly lab work), and an electrocardiogram (EKG).
Robotic hernia surgery
This surgery is performed in the same manner as laparoscopic surgery. Small incisions are involved in this surgery.
Robotic surgery can be used for smaller hernias or weak areas or reconstructing the abdominal wall.
Based on your diagnosis, your surgeon will decide the right hernia surgery option. Additionally, when going for hernia surgery, there are certain things that you need to consider before, during, or after the surgery.
In other words, prior preparation is essential for the success of the surgery and for your speedy recovery.
Preparation before the hernia surgery:
- Wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothes on the day of your surgery.
- Don’t take medications right before the surgery unless they are prescribed by your surgeon
- Don’t eat much before the surgery.
- Pack all the essential items if you have to stay in the hospital after the surgery.
At the time of surgery
Hernia surgeries are generally performed on an outpatient basis. Therefore, you can go home on the same day. On the day of the surgery, you will meet your surgical team and an anesthesiologist. The preparation for the surgery generally depends on the type of surgery you undergo and the anesthesia you receive.
Upon arrival, a surgeon can ask you to change your clothes and wear light ones. After that, the surgical and anesthesia teams will meet with you to briefly review the surgery. After that, they will take you to the operating room, where you will be given medication to put you to sleep and your operation will be performed.
Though hernia surgery is considered a safe procedure, in some rare cases there could be certain risks. These risks could arise from hernia surgery complications.
Blood clotting, excessive bleeding, infections or skin numbness could be the possible risks associated with hernia surgery.
At the time of surgery
The recovery period can vary from patient to patient. It depends on various factors including, type of surgery, a patient’s age, condition, or hernia type.
Generally, a patient takes four to six weeks to fully recover after the surgery. However, in the case of laparoscopic surgery, the time needed is much less.
Though, you should follow these steps for speedy recovery:
- Eat healthy food and take full rest to recover quickly.
- Avoid doing strenuous activities, especially for the few weeks after the surgery
- Take medications as prescribed by your doctor
- Schedule follow-up appointments with your doctor at regular intervals
- Don’t lift heavy weights for few weeks after the surgery
Patiala Heart Institute: Best laparoscopic surgeon in Patiala:
At Patiala Heart Institute, you can get the best hernia treatment under the supervision of the best laparoscopic surgeons in Patiala. Our laparoscopic surgeons offer the best possible care to all the patients.
Frequently Asked Question
Can you live a normal life after hernia surgery?
Yes, you can live a normal life after hernia surgery. You can go home the same day after the surgery. Moreover, you can also perform your day-to-day activities after fully recovering from the surgery.
What is the best position for you to sleep after hernia surgery?
One of the best positions to sleep after going through a hernia surgery is resting straight on your back. You can also add pillows underneath your head to get more comfort while sleeping.
Can you walk after hernia surgery?
Yes, you can walk after fully recovering from hernia surgery. There are no restrictions on physical activity after the surgery. However, you should start walking only after fully recovering from hernia surgery.
